Kilkenny Observer 26th April 2024

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More energy price cuts coming but IMF warns on inflation

We could be set for energy price cuts of up to 20% after wholesale energy costs fell to a fraction of what they were during the height of the energy crisis two years ago.

Figures released by the Central Statistics Office show that wholesale electricity prices were down 40p% last month over the past year.

The wholesale cost of electricity is now €87 a megawatt hour, a fall of 78% since its peak at the height of the crisis in the autumn of 2022.

While there was a slight rise in wholesale prices in March, the market has remained steady.

However, Daragh Cassidy of price comparison site Bonkers.ie, said not all of the

wholesale price increase was passed on in the first place.

He said: “Wholesale electricity prices remained largely steady in March and close to the three-year lows that were reached in February.

Wholesale prices are now a fraction of what they were at the height of the energy crisis.

“However, despite the re-

cent large falls, wholesale prices are still around double pre-energy crisis levels.”

Mr Cassidy said that, given where wholesale prices currently are, it was highly likely we would get another round of price cuts in the second half of this year of between 10% and 20%.

This comes on the back of two rounds of price cuts in-

troduced since last September that have cut energy bills by around 20% to 25%.

However, Rising energy prices and disruption to international shipping risk “stalling” declines in inflation in leading economies, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned, telling central banks that the “last mile” of their battle

Trump accused of ‘orchestrating’ a criminal conspiracy

Coill an Fhaltaigh up for top award

Donald Trump “orchestrated a criminal conspiracy to corrupt” the 2016 election through a string of hush-money payments, prosecutors said as he became the first former president to face a criminal trial.

Mr Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, was accused of scheming with Michael Cohen, his former fixer, and David Pecker, the former president and chief executive of American Media Inc (AMI), to “influence the 2016 presidential election”.

The allegations include paying off women who claimed to have had sexual encounters with Mr Trump, including $130,000 to “silence” Stormy Daniels, an adult film actress.

“At Trump’s direction, Cohen negotiated a deal to buy Ms Daniels’s story to prevent American voters from hearing that story before election day,” lawyer Matthew Colangelo told jurors.

Coill an Fhaltaigh on the outskirts of Kilkenny City has been shortlisted for the Native Woodland Conservation award which recognise excellence in the conservation and management of native forests and semi-natural woodlands which are regarded as ancient or long established and managed in a sustainable way.

On Thursday and Friday May 2 and 3, the RDS, Ballsbridge in Dublin will host ‘Finding Common Ground’, a festival on biodiversity and sustainability. As part of the two-day event, the RDS Irish Forest and Woodlands Awards, which recognise and reward farmers and woodland owners that have adopted Climate-Smart Agricultural practices will take place.

Coill an Fhaltaigh occupies the entire townland of Woodlands on the outskirts of Kilkenny City and is the largest of the Peoples Millennium Forests. Though sometimes known as ‘Woodlands’ it is local tradition still known as ‘Coill An Fhaltaigh’ or ‘Walls Wood’. In the 17th century the wood was part of the Brittas Estate home to the O’Rourke family. The property of Woodlands came into State possession in the 1930’s. It was replanted in 1950’s.

The site was once an old broadleaved site with considerable wildlife value.

Price of land is set to jump by 6% The price of agricultural land is expected to increase by 6% on average this year, due to an expected recovery in milk prices and continuing strong demand from farmers and investors.

New figures from the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and Teagasc show that the average value of non-

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

residential agricultural land in 2023 was €9,300/ac, an 11% increase on 2022.

The survey shows that national average non-residential farmland prices last year ranged from €6,286/ac for poor-quality land (up 13% on 2022) to €12,308/ac for good land (up 10%).

against price rises may be the hardest.

In its latest assessment of global financial stability, the IMF said markets were vulnerable to another round of volatility if investors continued to push back their expectations for interest rate cuts this year, leading to falls in bond and stock prices.

See John Ellis Page 16

The most expensive land is in Waterford, where good-quality land on small holdings is fetching an average of €20,000/ac.

The least expensive land is in Mayo where poor-quality land is selling for an average of €2,733/ac on holdings over 100ac.

On the rental side, the survey

found that last year average land rental prices increased by 5%, and SCSI agents expect average national prices to increase by 4pc this year.

In Munster average rental prices are expected to rise by 7%, with a 6% increase forecast in Connacht / Ulster.

In contrast SCSI agents ex-

pect average land rental prices in Leinster to decrease by 1% this year.

In 2023, land rental prices increased strongly in Munster (23% for grazing only and 9% for cereal crops), with relatively minor changes for most land types in Leinster and Connacht/Ulster.

We’re hopeless with waste Ireland’s poor recycling habits are revealed in a survey that shows only half of people are doing it right. Just 52% of people questioned said they always separated their general waste and recyclables into the correct bins at home.

The rest admitted taking a more lax approach - meaning hundreds of thousands of tonnes of recyclables could be contaminated and rendered useless every year.

Full story Page 6

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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We’re all set for a two-day street feast!

Kilkenny people will join an estimated 140,000 residents nationwide set to take part in Street Feast this year, and registration is now open. Ireland’s national weekend of street parties and community celebrations takes place May 25 and 26.

President Michael D. Higgins said: “We must all by now realise the importance of community, inclusion, creativity and togetherness – all values that require support and a conscious effort of care, protection and solidarity.

Initiatives such as Street Feast provide exactly that type of opportunity.”

Annually there are more Street Feast participants than Electric Picnic attendees!

From city slickers to countryside dwellers, everyone’s invited to the feast. Whether you’ve got a front yard, a street corner, or just a spot to gather, Street Feast knows no bounds.

Street Feast will be held over two days instead of one for the first time meaning a full weekend of celebrations.

Kilkenny is among more than 1,250 communities across Ireland who will share food and enjoy some conversation and camaraderie this summer – any excuse to connect with people in your neighbourhood. So let’s get planning.

Organisers say that no

matter what kind of place you live in, everyone is invited to participate and host gatherings. It doesn’t matter if you live in an apartment or house, all you need is a space to bring people together.

Street Feast has had parties organised in front gardens,

on streets and greens, in car parks, laneways, local parks and community centres.

Founder of Street Feast and Neighbourhood Network CEO, Sam Bishop, said: “For 14 years, Street Feast has been all about bringing folks together over food, fun, and fel-

lowship. And the stats speak for themselves: 97% feel the neighbourly love post-feast, and a whopping 98% say their sense of belonging gets a boost. That’s the magic of community” Sam adds: “97% feel their neighbourhood is friendlier

since hosting Street Feast and 98% say their sense of belonging has increased since Street Feast. That’s what it’s all about. Running it over two days instead of one will give people more opportunity to celebrate together.”

Register at StreetFeast.

ie today and don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to bring your community together and celebrate. Once registered you’ll receive a FREE Street Feast party pack, complete with bunting, posters, invites and a brilliant DIY guide.

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We’re going to splash out!

Many of us are planning to borrow money this year to finance big spends things such as home improvements, buying a car and holidays.

The interest being charged by the lender is a big factor in the decision to borrow, a survey of 4,000 members of one of the State’s biggest credit unions found. Low interest rates and flexible repayment terms are key considerations for borrow-

ers, according to the survey by Capital Credit Union.

More than four in 10 of those surveyed plan to borrow money this year.

Funding home improvements was a big reason to take on debt, respondents indicated.

The survey found that favourable interest rates were the biggest driver for people when deciding from which lender to

borrow. Capital has more than 50,000 members and several branches across south Dublin.

Most survey respondents said that interest rates were one of the most important considerations when thinking about a loan.

James Liston, business development manager at Capital, said: “Accessing credit for home improvements or even purchasing a car is a common

occurrence and can often be a prudent financial decision.

“Retrofitting your home, for example, can not only add to the value of your property but can reduce energy bills over the long term.”

But he warned that consumers should exercise caution around where they went for these loans.

Credit cards and moneylenders were hugely expensive

forms of credit that should be avoided if possible, he said.

The maximum interest rate that a moneylender can charge by law was a “staggering” 48% a year, Mr Liston said.

The survey findings show people are considering borrowing for both desirables such as holidays and necessities such as child education and medical expenses.

Some respondents also ex-

pressed interest in borrowing for debt consolidation and weddings, but these reasons were less common.

Credit unions dominate the market for personal loans – with a total of €6.27bn on loan to members versus just over €3.2bn owed to banks, according to a recently published ‘Overview of the Consumer Credit Market in Ireland’, by the Central Bank.

It’s a waste of effort when it comes to us dealing with waste Ireland’s poor recycling habits are revealed in a survey that shows only half of people are doing it right.

Just 52p%of people questioned said they always separated their general waste and recyclables into the correct bins at home.

The rest admitted taking a more lax approach - meaning hundreds of thousands of tonnes of recyclables could be contaminated and rendered useless every year.

Only 50% said they checked if a container or other packaging could be recycled when they went to dispose of it.

Just 11% said they checked for a recycling symbol when they purchased an item.

The survey found 41% wrongly believed minor waste mix-ups would not affect the overall recycling process.

Only 34% said they were fully confident that they knew how to recycle correctly and just 33pc said they found it straightforward.

The survey was conducted for Repak, the country’s main recycling body, in advance of Earth Day, which is marked today.

Repak chief executive Zoe Kavanagh said the findings ­ were a concern.

“We’re at a critical point when it comes to our recycling habits,” she said. “The research shows there’s a gap in our recycling knowledge, and a misunderstanding of how the smallest mistakes

can have big impacts when it comes to the recycling process.”

Ireland is set to miss an EU target to recycle 50pc of all plastic packaging by next year.

Currently, around 70% ends up being incinerated.

It is not just about targets – manufacturing containers and packaging is a constant drain on natural resources and energy, and keeps fossil fuels flowing for plastic production.

Recycling at least reduces some of that waste.

Householders are not alone to blame– many commercial premises are failing to separate and sort their waste too.

“If all consumers and businesses made a concerted effort to separate their packaging and ensure it is clean, dry and loose when recycled, we would make pivotal steps towards meeting EU targets and fostering a sustainable environment,” Repak said.

“By empowering more people with the knowledge and promoting responsible recycling practices, ­ Ireland can work towards a greener, more sustainable future.”

Barriers to recycling remain, however. Many apartment dwellers do not have easy access to recycling bins, and recycling containers on the move is also challenging.

Just 28% of people said they always separated their recycling to put in the correct bin when out and about.

All on board for Castlecomer Following a packed house at the Cave Bar for the first lecture, the second in a series of talks will be presented at The Community Hall, Castlecomer on Tuesday April 30 at 8pm

by Donie Butler, Kilkenny Railway Historian, in conjunction with Fassadinin Historical Society.

The principle focus in this second lecture will be the Railway to Castlecomer and terminus at The Deer Park Mining complex.

The line opened in 1919 with the first passenger service commencing from Castlecomer to Kilkenny

on February 21, 1921. The catalyst for the opening of this branch line off the main Kilkenny to Maryborough (Portlaoise) line was the coal mines at Deer Park Colliery and the Leinster Coalfield in general.

Captain RH Prior-Wandesforde of Castlecomer House was the main promoter of the building of the railway line as he had been lobbying the government for the line to be built over a 25 year period.

The Wandesforde’s had arrived from Kirklington in Yorkshire, England in the 17th Century as part of the

Cromwellian settlement of Ireland. Anglo-Norman settlers of the 12th Century lost their lands and the phrase ‘To hell or to Connaught’ was coined. The Wandesforde’s got involved in mining for Iron-Ore and discovered coal by accident. From then on they concentrated on mining the coal. Castlecomer and the area generally became known as a mining district.

Mr W T Cosgrave MP for North Kilkenny and later to become President of the Executive Council of the Irish Free State and father of the future Taoiseach

Liam Cosgrave, played a pivotal role in enabling the funding of the line through securing a British War Office grant. British engineering was in dire need of fuel to aid its industry to support the War effort and rebuild the country following World War I. Wandesforde also invested heavily both financially and in effort in securing the railway branch line from Dunmore West to Deer Pak. Further Information: Donie Butler danielbutler1948@gmail.com Tel:087-315 6359

Consumers for better Right to Repair law “Kilkenny consumers will end up being better protected when they purchase goods when a landmark piece of legislation is adopted by the European Parliament in Strasbourg,” says Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher.

The Ireland South MEP said the European Union’s

new ‘Right to Repair Directive’ would prolong the use of consumer goods, saving consumers money and cutting down on waste.

“European consumers lose almost €12 billion a year in buying replacements for goods that could have been repaired. This coming week in the European Parliament,

we will be voting to bring in regulations obliging manufacturers to repair their products. This will save consumers money, as well as helping move us towards a more circular economy,” explained MEP Andrews.

“The proposal will make it easier and more cost-effective for consumers to repair

and upgrade goods, instead of just buying replacements.

It will ensure that consumers have easier and cheaper options to repair products such as vacuum cleaners, washing machines and TVs.” The right for consumers to claim repair for products that are technically repairable under EU law (for instance,

washing machines or mobile phones) • An obligation for producers to inform consumers about the products that they are legally obliged to repair and an extension of six months of the liability period of the seller in case of repair • A European repair information form which consum-

ers can request from any repairer, bringing transparency to repair conditions and prices. This form also cuts red tape for smaller repairers as it is a standardised form.

• An online repair matchmaking platform to connect consumers with repairers in their area.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Walk and a chat puts us streets ahead I have taken to walking again. Weather permitting, a daily ‘constitutional’ as my late father called it. And that word used in the context of a walk applies to the health benefits of such. I think, perhaps, it was an old Irish expression.

And, while I have never had the prowess my dad showed when it came to walking, swimming and cycling, I have endeavoured to have a daily walk, about 4,000 steps, for all the proven benefits of such. Any physical activity is a boon to your health.

Walking, though, comes with a host of benefits such as counteracting the effects of weight-promoting genes, helping tame a sweet tooth – studies from the University of Exeter found that a 15-minute walk can curb cravings for chocolate! – and in women reduces the risk of developing breast cancer,

according to the same research.

Now, I learn that the optimal number of steps needed to benefit from walking shows you can say goodbye to the arbitrary “10,000 steps a day” target, as a new study shows that your health starts to see benefits from walking fewer steps than previously thought – my 4,000 or so.

Covid put paid to my daily ramble, initially. However, when that lovely summer of 2020 came where Nature was alive and palpably breathing – thanks to no airplane pollution – I ventured out, having spent months in solitary confinement. I felt strangely like an ‘extra’ in a Sci-Fi movie where things were beginning to feel somewhat surreal as I would head off for a walk over the mill and down by the playing fields. There were more than a few around and those I

passed looked at me sheepishly, because I was wearing a bright yellow bandana over my mouth and nose.

I wanted to say to them: “Don’t you just love TK Maxx for these kind of everyday essentials?” But I thought better, knowing right then they might have had a lot on their plate.

Now I am back in action, though a little slower and sometimes with the aid of a stick, thanks to an operation on my lower spine during Covid. It’s an age thing too – the balance and the gait are not what they were.

While I may not agree with the philosopher Nietzsche’s contention that “all truly great thoughts are conceived while walking”, I do find myself more often than not walking and planning my next column in my head, though whether such musings are “truly great” is debatable.

One of the great pleasures of going for a walk is in meeting other people out on a similar exercise, though coming from the opposite direction, and – they must think me mad – I inevitably stop them in their tracks.

Some I know, some are

“Say goodbye to the arbitrary 10,000 steps a day...

complete strangers. We talk, more likely just pleasantries. But we’re engaging with each other for however brief a period. And such engagement, human contact however brief, is imperative for our well-being. Or, at a very basic level, makes you move on thinking: I have been out and about and met and engaged with someone.

And there’s the ‘kindness’ of strangers, written all over their faces, saying thanks for stopping and for the chat.

Those I stop and engage with are of all ages and creeds but the older among us move on like Yeats’ paltry thing upon a stick, if a little wiser and a little kinder.

Wiser for me in the sense I learn a little more about the wonderful history of the surroundings I dwell in – from a five-minute chat with a passing stranger.

In his best-selling book The Five People You Meet

In Heaven, author Mitch Album says: “Strangers are just family you have yet to know.” My very good friend John K was, until seven years ago, a stranger to me. Now, we meet regularly and, yes, talk often about Nietzsche.

Loneliness has been cast as many things: an epidemic, pervasive, deadly even when it comes to our health. It was exacerbated by social distancing measures during the pandemic but predates that.

The charity Alone reckons there are 400,000 considered ‘lonely’ in Ireland, particularly in rural areas, where the post office, the local bank and mart are no more – once places for social interaction.

I am never one to be lonely but often some people I stop and chat with momentarily I suspect are lonely. Their conversation, their countenance implies it.

I may be the only person they talk to all day.

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Ní Mhurchú calls for car ‘alcohol interlocks’ Ireland South MEP candidate Cynthia Ní Mhurchú has backed calls by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) to mandate alcohol interlocks on the cars of convicted drug and drink drivers.

According to a recent report by the Irish Road Safety Authority, 37% of drivers who died on our roads between 2015-2019,

where a toxicology report was available, had alcohol in their system. The same report found that 73% said driving under the influence was unacceptable among friends and peers. That's down 12% compared to answers provided in a comparable survey published in 2019, meaning people see it as more socially acceptable to drive under the influence.

Deadline for farmers on Basic Income support deal Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm is reminding Kilkenny farmers not to miss the May deadline for the Basic Income Support Scheme (BISS).

The BISS was launched last year to replace the BPS from previous years. The deadline to apply for the scheme is May 15.

Ben Fogerty Partner at ifac in Kilkenny said: “This is one of the most important dates for farmers in the farming year. This is the deadline for declaring the land you are farming in the year 2024 and, therefore, enabling receipt of your BISS monies from October to December “As shown in numerous ifac Irish farm reports, BISS is crucial to the financial viability of many farms in Ireland. It can be an incredibly stressful time for farmers if this application is incorrect and monies are withheld later this year” The following are some basic questions farmers should be asking themselves and their Agri-advisors before submitting their applications: *Am I farming more/less land than last year? *Am I leasing in/out land that wasn’t previously on the application? *If leasing in/out new land have I leased in /out the BISS correctly with this land? *Have you bought/sold/inher-

ited/gifted land in the last year – Have I transferred in BISS correctly? *Have I declared all of the land I am farming correctly on my BISS application? *Have I changed the farming structure – Limited Company, Registered Farm Partnership, Joint herd number? If so, I must transfer BISS to the new structure. Always seek your accountant’s advice on HOW to transfer BPS so as not to incur taxes inadvertently. *Have I declared all of the land correctly in the name of the new business structure?

Ifac advises farmers the following at this time when completing a BISS application: *Employ a good Agri-advisor to help you complete your application. This is money very well spent considering the importance of the payment to the financial well-being of the farm. *If transferring BISS to a new entity (LTD, partnership, joint herd, family member etc) please ensure that BOTH your accountant and Agri-advisor are aware of what’s happening.

One of the most common mistakes with farmers changing business structure is neither their accountant nor Agri-advisor is aware of what each one applying for. This can have very serious impacts and could see significant taxes and losses in BISS if completed incorrectly.

Ms Ní Mhurchú says we have to look to what other EU countries are doing to tackle the scourge of drink and drug driving, “Almost 1,200 drivers in Belgium are currently driving a vehicle that has been fitted with an alcohol interlock after being convicted of driving under influence. In the Netherlands, a study showed that even

after the lock was removed, the reoffending rate of those convicted with an alcohol interlock was three times lower than for drivers who received a conventional penalty.

"We have to learn from what is working with our EU colleagues and try it for ourselves. A Finnish report published in 2013, and based on four years of data, showed a

recidivism rate of 6% when interlocks were used compared to the usual 30% rate in Finland.

She also described as "worrying" Garda figures that showed a significant drop in the amount of roadside alcohol testing that Gardai are carrying out.

“In Kilkenny and Carlow, mandatory intoxication testing checkpoints were

down 12% and breath tests were down 1% between 2022 and 2023. This is shocking. If you are not testing people, you cannot catch the people who are driving while under the influence of drug and drink drivers.

"I am calling on the Garda Commissioner to step up testing immediately in the Kilkenny and Carlow area," she said.

Building a more accessible Kilkenny

A better future: thirteen people representing members from the Kilkenny Branch of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Vision Ireland, Polio Survivors Ireland and Arthritis Ireland.

Centre of the group is Jacinta Purcell, youth worker and Ossory Youth members Cezi Focsa of Loreto Secondary School and Chloe Webster Denny of Colaiste Abhainn Ri, Callan

In a display of community collaboration, the recent Municipal District County Council meeting saw the convergence of two influential groups dedicated to enhancing accessibility and empowering the youth of Kilkenny. The Kilkenny Access Group and Ossory Youth, each playing vital roles in their respective spheres, came together to present their findings and visions for a more inclusive future.

The Kilkenny Access Group is a community-driven organisation committed to promoting accessibility and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities

in Kilkenny. Their tireless efforts aim to break down barriers and ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate in and contribute to community life.

Ossory Youth is a dynamic youth organisation that provides a range of services and opportunities for young people in Kilkenny. From youth clubs to leadership programs, Ossory Youth empowers the next generation by fostering personal development, social engagement, and community involvement.

At the recent council meeting, chaired by Mayor Joe Malone and Kilkenny

County Council Director of Services Tim Butler, and attended by councillors Maria Dollard, Eugene McGuinness, David Fitzgerald, John Coonan, Andrew McGuinness, and Martin Brett, Ossory Youth showcased their dedication to community betterment and inclusion by presenting the results of their Audit of Disabled Parking in Kilkenny, conducted in collaboration with the Kilkenny Access Group. This audit, conducted with passion, highlighted inconsistencies across the city among disabled parking bays and put forward suggestions for improvement.

"The collaboration between Ossory Youth and the Kilkenny Access Group signifies a powerful union aimed at fostering a more inclusive Kilkenny. Together, we are determined to create a county where every individual feels valued and included," said Paul O'Rahilly of the Kilkenny Access Group.

"The presentation of the Audit of Disabled Parking in Kilkenny is just the beginning of our partnership with the Kilkenny Access Group.

As youth workers, we are committed to empowering young people to actively engage in initiatives that make a positive impact."

Second-hand smartphones ring true Irish consumers are more willing than ever to consider purchasing a refurbished smartphone, according to the sixth edition of the Recommerce Barometer in partnership with Vodafone.

In 2022, Vodafone Ireland

became the first telecommunications company in Ireland to introduce trade-in, which offers customers incentives to trade-in their smartphone devices. In addition to this, Vodafone provides device repair and, since 2020, has

been offering a diverse range of refurbished devices.

In 2023, the worldwide market for second-hand smartphones expanded to 309 million units and is expected to grow by 40% to 430 million units by 2027.

One in three consumers in Ireland has purchased a refurbished device at least once, and more than two-thirds would consider buying one.

With refurbished devices in Europe set to account for 27 million devices sold in 2024,

more than 52% of Europeans declared they are willing to buy a refurbished smartphone in the future, with consumers in Ireland being the most probable market at 64%.

Irish consumers cited affordability (68%) as their

primary reason for choosing a refurbished device with environmental reasons the second biggest driver (36%), suggesting Irish consumer appreciation for the benefits of refurbished devices compared to buying new.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Not so wild: the charm of the Ancient East Just by the turnoff to my road there is a sign to welcome motorists to the Ancient East. It’s a big gold coloured sign but after which there is nothing, no further signage on the motorway to lead visitors to explore. It’s very different from the Wild Atlantic Way which is celebrating its 10th birthday – and where the distinctive blue zigzag symbol is there to greet you all along the iconic scenery of the Atlantic seaboard.

The 2,500km Wild Atlantic road trip stretching from the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal to Kinsale in Co. Cork has been a huge success, a clever marketing tool which boosted visitor revenue there to a staggering 3 billon last year. The Ancient East, created a year later to introduce visitors to a wealth of Irish history stretching back 5,000 years, hasn’t achieved quite the same high profile.

It’s a bit of misnomer, for the East stretches a long way

west, as far as Tipperary offering wonderfully varied experiences in on roads less travelled. Stretching from Dowra in Co. Cavan to Hook Head in Cork, the Ancient East was relaunched last year as one of Bord Failte’s four new Regional Tourism Development Strategies to provide a framework for sustainable tourism regional brands: Ire-

land’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Dublin and the Wild Atlantic Way. According to Bord Failte, the Ancient East brand has proven to be a motivating reason to visit Ireland with 650,000 more visitors visiting the region in 2019 compared to 2017. Nationally, Ireland’s Ancient East has a 25% share of overseas visitors to Ireland

and 35% share of total domestic trips.

Rather than routes, the area has themes and stories with a number of must-see destinations in each where there are wheel signs showing other destinations nearby. I spoke to a couple of tour guides who had the same comment: ”Visitors don’t say that they have come to Ireland because of the Ancient East, whereas they do come specifically for the Wild Atlantic Way.” Personally though, I much prefer the subtle charm of the Ancient East to its wilder brother, and which include my most favourite parts of Ireland, explored while researching several of my books, including The Hidden Gardens Of Ireland and The Hidden Houses Of Ireland.

Glimpses of ancient tumuli, ruined towers, grand houses behind demesne walls offer tantalising hints of history and stories waiting to be unravelled. What’s not to love

about those river valleys the Barrow, The Suir and the Nore and the villages strung along them, Thomastown, Inistioge and Graiguenamanagh like jewels in a lush landscape.

There are wonderful surprises to be discovered on the byways: the exotic Hindu Gothic Gate on the road to Villierstown, Co. Waterford, the watch tower village of Clonegal, Co. Carlow with memorable haunted Huntington Castle and the gastronomic delights of the Sha-roe Bistro. Or how about the exquisite Ros Tapestry [pictured] on display in 13th century Kilkenny Castle, depicting Norman history in the South East and created by local craftspeople over 20 years.

There is no doubt about it, tourists are wild about the west. The Wild Atlantic Way is now an international brand name which caused tourism there to surge by 58% in the last 10 years and created

LIS allocation to upgrade rural laneways Kilkenny County Council has been allocated a total of €1,304,899 as part of the Governments LIS allocation to upgrade rural laneways according to local Councillor Andrew McGuinness.

The funding was announced last Tuesday morning by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, as part of a €40 million package for local authorities throughout the country.

Welcoming the news, Councillor Andrew McGuinness said, “this is very positive news for Kilkenny as it will fund repairs and improvement works on non-public rural roads and laneways that badly need upgrading.

“It will help rural homeowners who live and work on private lanes that are not maintained by the local authority to access their homes and farms on good quality, safe surfaces. The upkeep of private lanes is an issue for many local farmers and residents and can often be very costly and unaffordable so this funding will be a great help in upgrading that vital road infrastructure in rural Kilkenny,” he said.

This announcement brings to a total of almost €170

million that has been allocated to local authorities under the Scheme since it was re-introduced in 2017. The allocation of funds is for works to be carried out across 2024 and 2025 on roads not normally maintained by the local authorities.

Making the announcement, Minister Humphreys said, “It’s a fantastic scheme under which the homeowners and farmers who use the lanes make a small local contribution and the Government provides the balance of funding to ensure that people can access their homes and farms on good quality surfaces.

“I am also amending the LIS criteria so that only one herd number will be required for a valid LIS application. Up to now, two herd numbers were required to be using the lane.

I am making this change in response to feedback that I have received from local repre-

sentatives and it will ensure that more families can now qualify for the scheme.

“I am also aware that Local Authorities need to carry out LIS works when weather conditions are favourable.

In recognition of this and in order to help local authorities better plan their work programmes, I am providing greater flexibility so that Local Authorities can use their allocation throughout 2024 and 2025.

Natural hay fever remedies CLAIR WHITTY

It’s that time of year again which those of you who suffer from hay fever dread.

I know it’s a little early, but did you know that by starting early you may help reduce the impact that pollen has on your immune system and the histamine response? Which means your symptoms may not be as bad.

A.Vogel Pollinosan hay fever remedy is one of our customers’ favourite supplements. It works best if you start taking

it before the season starts, and should be taken throughout the hay fever season to reduce the effect of pollen and the resulting symptoms. Pollinosan Hay fever Tablets contain 7 tropical herbs. The great thing is that they are non-drowsy so will not affect your ability to drive or use machinery.

Pollinosan can be used to help treat allergies to grass or tree pollen, as well as allergies to dust, animals and pets, and it is suitable for children over 12 years of age.

For younger children, you could try A.Vogel Luffa Complex. This is a tincture containing several herbal botanicals.

It’s suitable from 2 years of age

35,000 new tourism jobs according to Bord Failte, while tourism overall in Ireland grew by 45% between 2013 and 2019, well above the European average.

But I prefer to be far from the madding crowd and for instance one of the joys of the other brand Hidden Heartland is that it leads to places bypassed in the lemming-like rush for coastal scenery.

Take the Midlands, where there is the story behind the Jealous Wall, Ireland’s largest sham ruin, waiting to be discovered at Belvedere near Mullingar, or take time to admire the delicate lace at the Lace Gallery in Carrickmacross or to find Lough Derravaragh where the legendary Children of Lir swam as swans for 300 years.

Meanwhile, the Ancient East as a marketing concept isn’t as razor sharp as the WAW but maybe that adds to the charm of discovering roads less-travelled. and upwards. The dosage is one drop per year of age, twice daily in a little water. I would start this before the season starts and continue throughout season for optimum benefit.

Or, if you prefer, there’s the Hay Band, which is a drug free option and particularly good for young children, being suitable from age 3. The band is worn on the elbow and works like acupressure to relieve hay fever symptoms.

For extra support you can use A.Vogel Pollinosan Allergy Nasal Spray, which may be useful on very high pollen days. It’s used for treatment and prevention of symptoms associated with hay fever and allergic rhinitis, including runny or itchy nose, and nasal congestion. It can help decongest the nose in a natural way and reduces the harmful influences of allergens.

For children over two years of age, you can use one or two sprays into the nostrils several times per day. You may be able to use it during pregnancy but do check with your medical practitioner to be sure.

These are just some of the supplements available to help you deal with symptoms so you can feel good again. Why not give us a call for more advice.

Shop online at www. naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.

Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

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News

SPECIAL REPORT Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm is providing cashflow tips and advising a back-to-basics approach for Kilkenny dairy farmers following the rainy day setbacks.

In 2022, dairy farmers experienced a windfall with strong milk prices, leading to increased investment in their businesses. However, the landscape shifted in 2023, with cash reserves tightening and some farmers having depleted their rainy-day funds.

According to Philip O’Connor, Head of Farm Support at ifac: “The first months of 2024 have not shown significant improvement, as cashflow continues to be squeezed by various factors, including inflation, higher interest rates, and adverse weather conditions affecting fodder, grass, and turnout dates.

“While it’s evident that some bad habits emerged during the prosperous times of 2022, now is the opportune moment to correct them.”

Here are five simple steps for dairy farmers to regain control of their finances: Create A Realistic 12-Month Budget: • Dive deep into your financial records to understand spending patterns and identify any one-time expenses.

Reconciling past expenditures provides valuable insights for crafting a realistic budget.

• Base your yield projections on historical performance rather than wishful thinking.

Realistic estimates ensure your budget remains grounded and achievable.

• Don’t underestimate personal drawings, especially in light of rising living expenses.

Incorporate a realistic allowance for personal expenditures into your budget.

• Anticipate labour inflation of 5-10% to accurately reflect the true cost of farm operations.

Failing to adjust for labour expenses can lead to budget shortfalls.

A new report from the Health Research Board (HRB) has shown alcohol consumption in Ireland has fallen again and is now more than 30% lower than 20 years ago, according to Drinks Ireland, the Ibec sector that represents the industry.

Cormac Healy, Director of Drinks Ireland, said: “Drinks Ireland welcomes the recent findings from the HRB and the positive trends in Irish drinking habits it reaffirms.

There is a clear consumer trend towards greater moderation. The report showcases a notable decline in hazardous drinking patterns since 2010 and a delay in the onset of alcohol use among younger people. Ireland also saw a decrease in per capita alcohol use during

Cashflow advice for farmers amidst rainy-day setbacks • Make sure you incorporate tax liabilities and pension payments into your farm budget to avoid surprises down the line.

Assess Essential Expenses • Begin by listing down the expenses that must be met each month, prioritising necessities over luxuries. Remember, profitability doesn’t always translate to cash availability.

• Calculate the cash inflows and outflows for the current month, taking into account existing balances to determine the overall financial position.

• Don’t allow creditor debt to build up, as this will help reduce your interest exposure with high rates of merchant credit.

• Implementing monthly procedures for monitoring creditors and identifying overdue

A CASE IN POINT ...

As an example, borrowing €500,000 over 10 years at 4% puts the annual repayments on an amortising basis at about €45,000.

If interest rates increase to 6%, this figure rises to €52,500/year and, at 8%, €58,500.

Staying sharp, flexible, and clued-in is key to ensuring your farm’s viability. By getting back to basics and prioritising financial investments, farmers can get through the cashflow squeeze and position their businesses for longterm success. accounts can prevent the buildup of debt and improve cashflow.

Invest Wisely •If there is a surplus after meeting essential expenses, consider investing in nonessential items that contribute to the farm’s productivity and efficiency.

• Focus initially on investments that offer tangible financial benefits to the farm in the short to medium term.

Whether upgrading equipment or implementing new technology like automatic heat detection, choose investments that enhance cashflow and profitability.

• It’s important to challenge

Cheers! We Irish are drinking far less now

proposed investments in property or machinery to ensure they align with the farm’s financial goals and contribute positively to its bottom line.

capital investments or can simply help to manage monthly cashflow.

Examine Cost Base • To enhance financial performance, scrutinise costs for potential cutbacks and savings. When was the last time you checked what you’re paying for energy on the farm? Though not always obvious, a thorough cost-base review reveals opportunities for improvement.

• Amidst challenging times, identifying savings is tough, but diligent cash management and cost awareness enable ongoing monitoring of cost inflation.

• Knowledge of net margins and production costs facilitates decisions around expansion plans, and on-farm

Review Borrowings • To ensure financial stability, create a clear plan focusing on working capital, loan facility review, and future forecasting.

• A budget facilitates informed decisions and bank discussions and allows you to monitor loan repayments and the effect of interest rate shifts. The increase in Euribor over the past 18 months has had an impact on loan repayments for many farmers.

• Discuss options such as fixing interest rates with your bank or changing a money market loan to a variable rate loan offering. Some banks are now offering a more competitive variable rate loan offering than the historic money market loan that you may currently be on.

the pandemic. Consumption remains lower than prepandemic levels.”

The report is in line with other recent findings that overwhelmingly show a decrease in overall consumption, which pre-dated the introduction of the Public Health Alcohol Act. Ireland’s average alcohol consumption now stands below that of the UK and most European countries, including Spain, France and Germany.

Spearheaded by 18–25-year-olds, but evident across all age groups, we are consistently showing that we are taking control of our own habits and evolving in the way Irish people enjoy a drink. Also notable is a move towards zero-alcohol products, which have seen

exponential growth in Ireland, and offer choice that supports moderation.

The closure of many pubs – often the social heart of many communities – is partly a result of some of the highest levels of excise duty in the European Union.

The HRB report shows that substantial progress has been made. These positive trends will continue, with a focus on education and awareness amongst consumers, and the implementation of evidence-based policies, not just regulation and restriction.

“We would welcome lending our expertise and market insight to policy engagement to continue to help further promote moderation,” said Cormac Healy.

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Electricity bills: currently the options on offer With the recent reduction in electricity prices, you are presented with an opportunity to save on your energy bills.

However, navigating the multitude of residential electricity suppliers in the country can be overpowering, making it crucial to make informed decisions while looking for the best deals available.

Currently there are eight different residential electricity providers with each offering varying rates and promotional offers. While the supplier with the lowest unit rate per kWh may seem like the most costeffective option, it’s essential to consider additional factors such as standing charges and promotional offers to determine the underlying overall cheapest electricity provider.

To help get the best electricity deals, it’s important to understand the context of these price reductions. Wholesale electricity prices in Ireland have dropped significantly, with a 40% decrease over the past year, according to recent

data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). Since their peak during the energy crisis in 2022, prices have fallen by approximately 78%, although not all of this decrease was immediately passed on to consumers.

In March of this year wholesale electricity prices remained relatively stable, nearing three-year lows. Despite this, costs are still double pre-crisis levels. According to Darragh Cassidy of Bonkers. ie, “it’s highly likely we’ll see

another round of price cuts in the second half of the year of between 10 to 20%. This comes on the back of two rounds of price cuts introduced since last September that have seen energy bills fall by around 20 to 25% already”.

This means significant savings potential for consumers. While those on standard rates may be paying around 37 or 38 cents per kWh, new customers can access rates as low as 25 or 26 cents from several suppliers. This substantial difference could result in savings of over €500 for the average electricity customer.

Anyone who’s not in contract should seriously consider switching energy supplier.

Shop around, even households that have switched providers in the past year could benefit from switching again, as unfortunately loyalty does not necessarily pay off long term in the energy market. It’s important to note that most suppliers offer 12-month contracts, often with an exit fee of around €50 if terminated early. But in some cases, paying the exit fee may be worthwhile if a new supplier is offering significantly better rates.

Comparing electricity prices regularly and switching to

the cheapest provider can result in substantial long-term savings, potentially amounting to over €700 in just one year for average-usage households.

Why not register with a platform like One Big Switch which has over 500,000 members and receive access to exclusive deals negotiated with energy providers, ensuring you stay informed about the latest cost-saving opportunities.

While the reduction in electricity prices in Ireland is undoubtedly a positive development for consumers, finding the best deals requires careful consideration of various factors beyond just the unit rate per kWh. By staying informed, comparing prices, and taking advantage of promotional offers, you can maximize your savings and navigate Ireland’s electricity market with confidence. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362622

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 66

“ I'm not the only one producing methane!”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

News Science & Wellbeing The production of our food is allegedly responsible for onequarter of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions which has made many of us sit up and take notice that our diet and food choices significantly impact on our carbon ‘footprint’.

What can you do to really reduce the carbon footprint of your breakfast, lunches, and dinner? “Eating local” is a recommendation you hear often — even from prominent sources, including the United Nations. While it might make sense intuitively — after all, transport does lead to emissions — it is one of the most misguided pieces of advice.

Eating locally would only have a significant impact if transport was responsible for a large share of food’s final carbon footprint. For most foods, this is not the case.

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation make up a very small amount of the emissions from food, and what you eat is far more important than where your food traveled from.

Where do the emissions from our food come from?

The biggest GHG emissions can from some 30 food products — from beef to nuts.

For each product, this extends from land use changes to transport and packaging .

There is data from the largest meta-analysis of global food systems to date, published in Science by Joseph Poore and Thomas Nemecek.

In this study, the authors examined data from more than 38,000 commercial farms in 119 countries.

In this comparison, we look at the total GHG emissions per kilogram of food products.

CO2 is the most important GHG, but not the only one — agriculture is a large source of the greenhouse gases methane and nitrous oxide. To capture all GHG emissions from food production, researchers express them in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents. This metric takes into account not

Greenhouse gases and the food we eat

just CO2 but all greenhouse gases.

The most important insight from this study is that there are massive differences in the GHG emissions of different foods: producing a kilogram

of beef emits 60 kilograms of greenhouse gases (CO2equivalents). In contrast, peas emit just one kilogram per kg.

Overall, animal-based foods tend to have a higher footprint than plant-based. Lamb and

cheese both emit more than 20 kilograms of CO2-equivalents per kilogram. Poultry and pork have lower footprints but are still higher than most plantbased foods, at six and seven kg CO2- equivalents, respec-

tively. For most foods — and particularly the largest emitters — most GHG emissions result from land use change and from processes at the farm stage. Farm-stage emissions include processes such

as the application of fertilisers — both organic (manure management) and synthetic; and enteric fermentation (the production of methane in the stomachs of cattle). Combined, land use and farm-stage emissions account for more than 80% of the footprint for most foods.

Transport is a small contributor to emissions. For most food products, it accounts for less than 10%, and it’s much smaller for the largest GHG emitters. In beef from beef herds, it’s 0.5%.

Not just transport but all processes in the supply chain after the food leaves the farm — processing, transport, retail, and packaging — mostly account for a small share of emissions.

The data shows this is the case when we look at individual food products.

However, studies also show that this holds true for actual diets; for example, researchers Vilma Sandström and colleagues studied the footprint of diets across the EU. Food transport accounted for only 6% of emissions, whilst dairy, meat, and eggs accounted for 83%.

Eating locally only slightly reduces your emissions, Eating local beef or lamb has many times the carbon footprint of most other foods.

Whether they are grown locally or shipped from the other side of the world matters very little for total emissions.

Transport typically accounts for less than 1% of beef’s GHG emissions: eating locally has minimal effects on its total footprint.

You might think this figure strongly depends on where you live and how far your beef will have to travel, but it doesn’t make much difference.

Whether you buy it from the farmer next door or from far away, it is not the location that makes the carbon footprint of your dinner large, but the fact that it is beef.

So, go easy on the beef...

Is filtered water healthier than tap water?

When the non-profit Environmental Working Group polled 2,800 people living across the US, half said their tap water was unsafe to drink, with nearly 35% filtering their water.

Similarly, according to a 2023 survey of more than 500 people in the UK by the Swedish filter company Tappwater, 42% “don’t trust or like the taste of tap water”. A quarter of respondents believed their tap water wasn’t clean, with contaminants, chemicals, and bacteria their top concerns.

As a result, more than half of Londoners (54%) said they use a water filter.

Water filters, it seems, are having a heyday – particularly in North America, throughout Europe, and in China.

In 2022, the global water purifier market was worth

an estimated $30bn; and it’s expected to grow more than 7% by 2030.

Proponents argue that filtering water can bring about numerous benefits, from removing toxins and pathogens to reducing hardness and improving odour and taste.

But is filtered water really healthier for you than water from the tap?

For those who prefer to filter their water, there’s a smorgasbord of systems to choose from: pitcher-style filters, tapmounted ones, countertop or refrigerator purifiers, and under-sink setups, to name just a few. Simple ones cost only a couple of euro, while more elaborate devices – think wi-fi-enabled gadgets that track water usage and detect

plumbing problems – can run to four figures.

In general, water filters fall into two main groups, says Kyle Postmus, who oversees filter certification at the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), an independent certification organisation in Michigan, US. “Point-of-use ones filter water just before it goes into a glass, while point-ofentry filters treat water at the point where it enters a house or building,” says Postmus.

Filters also differ in the type of materials they’re made from and employ varying technologies – adsorption, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and mechanical separation are the more popular ones – to weed out water from other molecules.

“Different filters can serve different treatment goals,”

says Detlef Knappe, a Professor of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at North Carolina State University. “There’s a lot of nuances.”

The trick is to understand what’s in your water and whether it needs to be treated, then find the appropriate filter to do so.

Of course, the potential benefits of filtering tap water depend on where in the world you live.

In developing countries where communities struggle to gain access to clean drinking water, “the primary problem we’re worried about is usually bacteria like E.coli and Legionella,” says Brent Krueger, a chemistry professor and co-director of the Global Water Research Institute at Michigan’s Hope

College. Contaminated water can cause diarrhoea, a preventable disease that kills an estimated one million people annually, nearly half of them children under five.

Water filters, however, can be “very effective at stopping bacteria,” says Krueger, whose team has led such efforts in Latin America. In one trial, they installed filters in homes across 16 villages in the Dominican Republic.

This led to the incidence of diarrhoea falling from 25.6% to under 10%, resulting in other positive knock-on effects. “Children miss less school, and adults miss less work which provides a financial benefit to the family as well,” says Krueger.

In the Western world, tap water is tightly regulated and generally considered safe.

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Travel & Leisure A favourite resort for many Irish tourists is Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and the destination too for the wealthy.

A collection of artificial islands have been under construction in Dubai. Geared to create more rental space, it is also meant to prepare for the looming depletion of the oil supply that the nation will have to one day face.

An innovative way for land reclamation, there have also been parallel record-breaking projects on them, including establishing the world’s largest observation wheel on the still-under-construction Bluewaters Island and the renowned Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, on its very own island. Fully established, the Palm Jumeirah is currently the only such island serving its purpose in enriching Dubai.

The construction of three more, the Palm Jebel Ali, the Deira Islands, and The World Islands, has been stalling for economic reasons.

The creation of the Palm Jumeirah, resembling, from an aerial perspective, a palm tree within a circle, started in 2001. Completed by 2006 and composing a land area of over 5.6 square kilometres, the crescent around the tree serves to break water, with two gaps allowing water circulation.

The island also has 17 fronds, representing a real palm tree’s greenery, containing luxury hotels, villas, and resorts.

The trunk of the palm holds apartments, hotels, and retail shops. Tourists can access this island via the Middle East’s first monorail system from mainland Dubai, while an underwater tunnel connects it to the top-most frond.

Nakheel, a real estate company that Dubai’s government now owns, developed the island, while Helman Hurley Charvat Peacock, an American architectural firm, designed the master plan. Like much in Dubai, the country’s Smart cities in Europe and Asia are gaining ground globally while American cities have fallen down the ranks, according to the 2024 Smart City Index released this month.

Of the top 10 smart cities on the list, seven were in Europe.

This year’s index was produced by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre’s Smart City Observatory in collaboration with the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation (WeGO) that’s based in Seoul, South Korea.

The report ranks 142 smart cities worldwide based on data analysed by researchers, as well as survey responses of 120 residents in each city. The study captures an overview of how the infrastructure and technology available in a city impacts the city’s performance and the quality

Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island

petroleum income financed the island’s construction.

Altogether, this first-born and only fully completed and functioning artificial island in the world has around 10,000 residents. Still, home to only half the number of residents as Nakheel prospected for the Palm Jumeirah, the islanders complain about the islands’ “weird” or inconvenient fragmented shape and the stagnant water with algae and mosquitoes.

The largest of the hotels in Palm Jumeirah, the Atlantis, opened in 2008. It has an adjacent water park covering 0.45 km2 and is located at the top of the almost 11-kmlong crescent. Its aquarium holds 65,000 sea creatures and a lagoon for dolphin interaction. Among other

services and amenities, there are over 20 restaurants, highend boutiques, a spa, as well as underwater suites for those wishing to stay a night or a few. The Palm Tower on the island, containing St Regis Dubai, was set to open in 2018 but opened only this year, in May, while the Nakheel Mall was set to open in late 2017 but instead opened at the end of November in 2019.

The Burj Al Arab Hotel is of the most iconic and expensive structures globally.

It stands at 1,053 feet and is supported by thick subsurface or underwater columns, running 45 meters deep into the earth. Held together by sand, this luxurious 5-star resort, completed in 1999, sits on its own designated artificial island and features a

Zurich tops the world’s Top 10 Smartest Cities

private beach, a helipad, and an outdoor terrace jutting out over the ocean. The interior is made of gold, gilded into all imaginable surfaces, with 24- karat gold leaf covering about 1,790 square meters of the hotel. The elevator is also gold-plated, while over 30 types of Italy- and Brazilimported marble can be found in various interior features.

The hotel’s indoor fountain is the largest of its kind globally, shooting water for over 42 meters into the air.

The construction began when the local real estate conglomerate, Nakheel, ordered to dredge 3 billion cubic feet into the floors of the Persian and Arabian gulfs.

The surrounding crescent, also serving as breakwater of seven miles long, was piled

out of seven million tons of mountain rock.

The reinforcing base was created by only using locally quarried rock, completely lacking concrete or steel in its composition, while the sand dredged from the gulf was redeposited to shape the islands.

In the final stages, the six- lane undersea tunnel was dredged to connect the island to the beaches on the crescent for public use. The complications faced by the developers include sand erosion and liquefaction, while the changed gulf current today is eroding the unsupported places of the city’s coastline.

Unexpectedly, at least to the prime minister himself, there has been a shocking effect on the ecosystem from establishing

this island. Having faced criticism for other projects in the past, Dubai has never faced so much from the environmentalists before.

Firstly, the dredging of the ocean’s floor has drastically changed the current and the erosion patterns in the Persian Gulf. It also led to the decay of the whole square mile of the living coral reef.

To counteract this, the island developers descended two American fighter jets onto the ocean bottom to grow a new reef, claiming that the island’s breakwaters would attract more sea life to inhabit the depleted waters.

Still, the World Wildlife Fund insists that the UAE is running five times more unsustainable than any other country in the world

of life of its inhabitants.

According to the IMD, a smart city is defined as “an urban setting that applies technology to enhance the benefits and diminish the shortcomings of urbanisation for its citizens.”

The cities that perform well on the list have also developed initiatives that cater to their citizens’ overall quality of life.

“Such initiatives have focused on developing green spaces and broadening opportunities for cultural events and social bonding, for example,” according to the report.

“In the majority of these leading cities, such efforts have been combined with innovative strategies to attract and retain talent, foster investment in a selective fashion [eg. pro-sustainability], and tackle long standing issues

regarding geographical inequalities and inclusion,” the report said.

The Top 10 Smart Cities 1. Zurich, Switzerland [pictured] 2. Oslo, Norway 3. Canberra, Australia 4. Geneva, Switzerland 5. Singapore 6. Copenhagen, Denmark 7. Lausanne, Switzerland 8. London, England 9. Helsinki, Finland 10. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Notably, for the first time since the index’s inception in 2019, there is an absence of North American cities in the Top 20.

The highest ranking US city this year is New York City which ranked 34th, followed by Boston at 36th and Washington DC, coming in at 50th place.

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Down the aisle and up the Parade – with Simon Hardly a day goes by when I don’t find myself walking along the Parade. I’ve written about this before and how, occasionally, I bump into some interesting people. For instance there was the very low-sized, almost clown-like guy with wild, bushy hair who stopped me and asked if I knew where he might purchase a pair of ballroom dancing shoes!

To this day I can’t decide whether he was a spy (and was I meant to have a stock reply: what size might you be looking for?) or whether he was trying to pick me up! – a thought that still gives me the creeps. Moving rapidly on I am strolling up the Parade last Friday when I most definitely see a person of interest, a person who was recently elected to the highest office in the land – I see Simon Harris walking from the Castle Park towards the Design Centre surrounded by a cohort of his followers.

Well for sure this was a first – in all my years ambling along the Parade I have never encountered a Taoiseach. Like everyone I stopped, stood and stared. And, yes, he is tall and as thin as a lat. As the fella said: if he stood sideways he’d be marked absent! And then,

like everyone around me, I reached for my mobile phone and snapped a few shots.

And then I wondered what the Taoiseach was doing in this beautiful city of ours because for sure no one told me he was coming (canvassing, I was subsequently

informed by a member of his Government). For a split second I considered approaching our Taoiseach, introducing myself (an esteemed journalist with The Kilkenny Observer!) and asking him a few questions.

Except I didn’t have any questions to ask. Sad really.

But then I have to confess that I am totally disillusioned with politics; disillusionment brought about by Mr Netanyahu, one Vladimir Putin, one Donald Trump and the clown who has left the political circus (I hope), Boris Johnson.

Not that I am comparing Simon Harris to any of those dangerously deranged egotists, dare I say despots.

Simon Harris is, I believe, an honourable man, a politician of integrity and I wish him well in his tenure of office and as leader of our country.

And just as I was about to go my way Mr Harris literally crossed paths with a newly married couple coming from

a photo session in the Castle Park [pictured]. He stopped, of course. And engaged them in conversation. And now cameras were flashing left, right and centre, and for sure not many couples can boast of having a Taoiseach feature in their wedding album!

And then I did have some questions to ask our Taoiseach – what did you say to the newly-weds? And had you any advice on how to keep their newly formed ‘coalition’ on track and harmonious?

From new mates to checkmate and a question: how many limestone tables are there on the Parade or rather the Mayor’s Walk next door?; those tables that are hugely popular with our secondary school students especially on Friday afternoon when school is out for the half-day. Answer, seven.

Next question: what is engraved on each of those tables? Answer: chess or draught ‘boards’ (though they

are quite faded now). A brilliant idea really.

Question three: has anyone ever seen anyone playing a game of chess or draughts at same tables? As someone who walks the Parade and the Mayor’s Walk everyday I haven’t (I only see children pucking hurling balls around) which is a shame because in several European cities I have visited I have often seen chess being played in public parks and even on the streets. Pity the practice hasn’t taken off here.

A thought – perhaps Kilkenny’s Chess Club might hold an open day and commandeer those tables for a few hours to encourage the playing of chess and to draw people’s attention to the unused facility.

Finally, as poor a chess player as I am perhaps I should round up an equally poor player and commence a game on one of the tables; for sure it won’t be exhibition stuff but it’ll look good for the tourists!

An Taoiseach Simon Harris visits Shaws Carlow An Taoiseach Simon Harris pictured in the newly refurbished Shaws Department Store Carlow alongside John Paul Byrne, Store Manager, and store colleague Elaine Doogue

Shaws was delighted to welcome An Taoiseach Simon Harris and local Councillors to their new look store on Tullow Street on Friday 19th April. An Taoiseach met with John Paul Byrne, Store Manager, and store colleagues including Elaine Doogue who celebrates her 40th year working in their Carlow store.

Simon Harris, An Taoiseach says “you’ve a fine looking store,” and passed on his congratulations to all store colleagues.

John Paul Byrne says “it was a wonderful surprise and

an honour to welcome An Taoiseach to Shaws, Carlow.

An Taoiseach was genuinely interested in the products and new services Shaws of Carlow has to offer, and congratulated us on our fine new look store.”

Shaws Department Stores is pleased to announce the upgrade and opening of its newest look store in Shaws, Carlow with a significant investment of over €400,000+ which marks a new chapter in their 160 years of business and elevates their Carlow store to become the best

department store shopping experience in the region.

Since 1949, Shaws has been an integral part of the Carlow Town Centre. In their 75th year on Tullow Street, an impressive refurbishment has now been completed, promising to usher in a fresh retail experience for Carlow Town.

Shaws Carlow employs 55 store colleagues, with a further 30 employed through concessions and their Central Distribution Centre, which is also based in Carlow, employs 23.

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High Street resurfacing works to begin incorporating the introduction of a contraflow cycle lane on High Street Since the implementation of COVID-19 measures in Kilkenny City, cyclists have been unable to cycle on High Street from Parliament Street towards The Parade. A motion, passed

by Councillors in November 2023, approved the introduction of a contraflow cycle lane to reinstate this link for cyclists. The notice of motion ” to retain existing temporary one -way system pending the outcome of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan and amend the general layout of the existing One-Way System to facilitate contra-flow cycling including the removal of temporary bollards along High Street…” was approved by the majority of members at the November meeting.

High Street is scheduled for resurfacing in the coming weeks, presenting the opportunity to implement the contraflow cycle lane efficiently, minimising disruption for residents, workers, business owners, shoppers, and visitors.

The Kilkenny City and County Development Plan, Kilkenny has set the ambitious goal of a 10% modal share for cyclists for all journeys within the city. Kilkenny is currently out performing other similar

sized towns with a modal share of 3.6% for workers. However, the number of children and young people cycling continues to decline.

Consistently, when asked, young people do not feel our roads are safe enough to cycle on.

This is a huge loss to our community where two generations ago, almost 40% of young people cycled to school and to other activities.

This loss of independence results in a large amount of care journeys, as children are taxied around from home to school to activities.

This results in circuitous journeys, heavy congestion at school times and increases for all in commuting times as the reliance on cars increases. Offering people choices in their transport modes, results in benefits to the wider community as a whole. This has been demonstrated by the success of the Kilkenny City Bus Service which now transports on average 1000 people per day.

"We recognise the importance of providing safe spaces for cyclists, unfortunately when looking at fatalities on our roads, cyclists are disproportionately represented. Many more are put-off from considering cycling due to the perceived lack of safety," stated Ian Gardner, Senior Engineer in Kilkenny City. "The introduction of a contraflow cycle lane on High Street will allow those who have put away the bike to choose cycling once again and hopefully we will be able to attract some more cyclists and work towards our target.

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Opinion

The Last Word Pat Coughlan

We have to talk about the wrongs of Israel Talking about what’s going on in Israel and the Palestinian territories has always been like walking on eggshells. There’s a grand fear of being labelled – nobody wants to be called something as severe as an antisemite, or, heaven forbid, compared to a Nazi.

But refusing to talk about the tension in Gaza and other places isn’t doing any of us any favours. It’s time we brought this topic out into the open. We know it’s uncomfortable, but ignoring it won’t make it go away.

The Israeli West Bank barrier is Israel having established its own wall. This massive wall is a symbol of division that’s caused more than its fair share of conflict.

Stretching far beyond the internationally established Green Line, it separates families, snatches lands, and throws a spanner in the works for any hopes of a Palestinian state standing

on its own two feet in the future. Imagine having your daily life interrupted by a towering wall that dictates where you can go and who you can see. It’s more than a lump of masonry; it’s a true obstacle to the everyday life and dreams of many Palestinians.

Let’s look at Israeli settlements expanding over into Palestinian territories.

What’s happening there is that land is being taken under the pretext of being of security or religious importance and leaving the Palestinians even more desperate.

They are without homes, land, water and entire communities are disrupted. The Israeli Government isn’t just sitting back either; they’re throwing incentives and building infrastructure to make these areas attractive for Israelis to move into.

The army is there to provide muscle and arrest anyone who complains. It’s a clever

move, but it’s causing no end of heartache for the Palestinians living there.

And so to discriminatory policies and practices operated by the Israelis.

This downright unfair way of life is what Palestinians are dealing with, especially when it’s coming to trying to build a house or holding onto their land. It’s a tough task especially with Israeli settlers often having the upper hand, leaving the Palestinians feeling like they’re always on the back foot.

Between a rock and a hard place, they are trying to navigate through all the red tape just to get a building permit, while their lands are being stolen left, right, and centre.

When we talk about the Israeli military, we’re not just on about soldiers keeping tabs. With their omnipresent checkpoints, roadblocks, and the like, they’re a whole major part and parcel of life in the

Palestinian territories. It’s hard for the locals, making everything from heading to work, to getting medical care, to sending the children off to school more dangerous than you’d believe. All these restrictions are putting a right stranglehold on the Palestinian economy – not to mention what some

“This wall is a symbol of division...

people describe as “an open prison”.

So, what about administrative detention? Israel has this practice where they can hold Palestinians without having to charge them or put them on trial. It’s a major sore point because it flies right in the face of what most of us reckon is fair play – the whole concept of due process and individual rights. Imagine, just going about your day and then, wham, you’re locked up without so much as a byyour-leave. It’s a situation that’s causing a lot of chinwagging, not just locally, but on the global stage as well.

Right, so let’s wrap this up.

We’ve had a proper deep dive into how Israeli policies are playing out in the Palestinian territories. We’ve seen the expansion of settlements, that big wall separating communities, practices that hardly seem fair, the military’s heavy presence,

and not forgetting the issue of administrative detention.

It’s a lot to take in.

As I write, Israel has accelerated the construction of settlements across East Jerusalem, with more than 20 projects totalling thousands of housing units having been approved or advanced since the start of the war in Gaza six months ago, according to the Guardian.

Ministries and offices within the Israeli government are behind all the largest and most contentious of the projects, sometimes in association with rightwing nationalist groups with a history of trying to evict Palestinians from their homes in parts of the city.

What this all boils down to is the real impact on people and how these policies are going against any hopes of peace and stability in the area.

But it won’t go away unless we start talking about Israel.

High speed broadband for Castlecomer, Clogh, Moneenroe and surrounding areas The National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to ensure that every Home, Farm and Business in Ireland, regardless of how remote or rural has access to high-speed broadband.

The Castlecomer, Clogh, Moneenroe and surrounding areas are currently Network_Build_In Progress with regards to the National Broadband Plan.

The date anticipated for connection for these areas is between July 2024 – September 2024. It’s on the way! This plan will ensure that Castlecomer, Clogh, Moneenroe and surrounding areas will have access to high-speed fibre broadband.

Cllr John Brennan advised that this has been in the pipeline for some time now and he very much welcomes the National Broadband Plan (NBP) to his local area. Cllr. Brennan advises that this is a huge boost for local business and to the area in general. Access to

high speed WIFI will: Boost tourism for customers to the local area. Improve access to online education tools and courses. Provide reduced cost packages that bundle mobile, broadband, television and home phone.

Benefit remote workers.

If you wish to check the progress in your area and keep up to date, please log on to the online website: https://nbi.ie/eoi/ and click on “Search your Eircode” to find out when your premises is included in the plan.

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82nd Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis At the recent Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, the large numbers of young adults in attendance was particularly noticeable along with the reliable older members from former years.

There were several excellent workshops to be visited over the weekend which were chaired by Fianna Fáil TD’s and Ministers covering such topics as education, the economy, housing, European matters and the environment.

At the education workshop local Councillor, Deirdre Cullen, from the Callan Thomastown electoral area addressed the problem of mental health and wellbeing for young people in education.

She pointed out that over a million children and young people in Ireland experience challenges to their mental health. This was particularly noticeable during Covid and Deirdre sees the growing need for supports to be put in place in our schools and the wider school environment. In reply, Minister Norma Foley announced the establishment of a programme of counselling, wellbeing and mental health supports that are presently being piloted in a number of primary schools. In addition, the minister also promised improved bus services to schools and the roll out of school meals in a number of schools.

Deirdre also raised the problem of combatting school absenteeism, early school leaving, and educational disadvantage existing in our schools and she asked both

Norma Foley and Michael McGrath - who was also involved in this Educational workshop - to make appropriate funding for these areas.

Minister for Education Norma Foley TD with local Councillor Deirdre Cullen

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Susan Doyle and David Kane

Susan Doyle, Social Democrats MEP candidate for Ireland South visits Kilkenny Cork based Solicitor; Susan Doyle has been selected by the Social Democrats to run in June's European Parliament Elections for Ireland South. Susan visited Kilkenny on Sunday 21st April and met with Martin O’Neill, local election candidate for Kilkenny and David Kane, local election candidate for Piltown.

“I haven’t been to Kilkenny

in a few years. It is such a beautiful city, and we had a great day visiting the local sites and we managed to fit in a coffee at Michael Dore’s coffee shop outside the castle.

I will definitely be back over the next few weeks.”

“Everyone was so welcoming and raised many issues of concern such as housing and healthcare. Many local residents also raised concerns

about the completion of the Northern Ring Road.”

Susan Doyle, a self-employed solicitor, and mother of two said “I will be running as the Social Democrat candidate in the European Elections in June for Ireland South. As a solicitor of 12 years, I have an excellent insight into the issues which affect people on the ground, and I want to use this knowl-

edge to represent the people of Ireland South at an EU level.”

She opened her own legal practice in 2019 which focuses on the areas of immigration, disability law, discrimination and housing law. She has worked extensively with asylum seekers and understands the huge challenges facing the asylum system. “The system is broken and needs urgent reform. Asylum seekers rights are not being respected as a result of understaffing and neglect of the current system.

Decisions are taking years to issue in some cases which leaves the direct provision system overburdened and causes massive shortages in accommodation.”

“Immigration is one of the biggest challenges facing the European Union at this time and over the coming months and years, the European Parliament will need strong voices of people who truly understand national, European and international laws so that it can work within the legal framework to develop long term solutions while ensuring that the rights of migrants are fully protected.”

Susan also believes that the European Union has failed in its approach to Gaza.

“The people of Gaza deserve better, and a wider range of voices need to be heard at a European level. I am entirely dissatisfied with the approach of the EU. The European Parliament needs to take a stronger stance on Gaza and

Susan Doyle and Martin O'Neill

impose sanctions on Israel.

The EU needs to unequivocally condemn Israel's recent actions in Gaza, not only to bring about a ceasefire but to find long term solutions to the issues facing the region.”

“I also want to prioritise disability rights within the EU. This includes creating full accessibility of goods and services and transport. It also involves ensuring that people with disabilities can fully enjoy their rights under the EU Treaty including the right of free movement and electoral rights. I would also work to

ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to sport, education, health and housing. The EU is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and I would work to ensure that the Convention is fully implemented at an EU level.”

"I want to be a strong, effective voice for Europe, and I will offer real solutions. If elected, I will be deeply committed to the role, and I hope to get the support of people in Ireland South so that I can represent them in Europe.”

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Opinion

Part five

Ambush on Friary Street

(Local veterans parade Easter Sunday 1970: Picture shows: Front row: L. to R: Tom Kearney, Bill Leahy, Tom Dowling. Second row: L. to R: Billy Oakes, Billy Dowling, Dash Walshe. Third row: John Millea.)

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Concluding the Story of that memorable day on Friary Street in 1921… If you missed the previous parts you can read these on the Kilkenny Observer website...

Phil Dillon, who was in the bottling store yard off Friary Street with the horse and trap that was to convey the weapons, realised that the ambush had misfired.

He calmly abandoned the transport and walked out of the yard. He ambled into the nearest pub and sat down to have a drink.

All the members of the ambush team escaped, with the exception of the two men who had been shot. The soldiers moved along Friary Street with rifles cocked.

They examined the two rebels lying on the ground. Both had loaded revolvers that had not been fired.

Tom Hennessy was dead. A bullet had struck his heart.

Michael Dermody was alive, but had sustained a grievous head wound. Further down the street, the soldiers searched Tom Dullard, whom they assumed to be another member of the ambush team. He was lying in a

pool of blood. They found no weapon on him.

As the soldiers patrolled the street, Dr. John Mitchell rushed out of his nearby dispensary and began to bandage the wounds of the two rebels. Soldiers ran up to him and struck him with rifle butts, leaving him stunned and scarred. They later claimed they mistook him for a civilian.

Fr. Pat emerged from the Friary to anoint the three men that lay bundled on the street. It transpired that he had been tipped off the night before that he might be needed that morning.

An army ambulance conveyed the three injured men to Kilkenny’s military hospital. Tom Hennessy was already dead. Tom Dullard died an hour or two later.

Michael Dermody remained unconscious until his death at the hospital on March 4th 1921.

32 year-old Tom Hennessy was a farmer and dedicated Irish speaker. He had learned the language at night classes in Threecastles run by a Master Power. His family felt proud of the fact that he had died confronting his foes without drawing his gun.

Huge crowds attended his funeral at Tallow Church, Threecastles, on February 22nd. Among those who carried his tricolour draped coffin were Ned Dunne and

Dick McEvoy, who had been warned for their own safety not to be seen at the funeral.

But there was no stopping them, fear being a word unknown and unheard of in their vocabulary.

After the funeral, Tom Hennessy’s brother, Tim, was arrested by Black and Tans and driven away in a Crossley Tender.

25 year-old Michael Dermody’s send-off was equally well attended. On March 5th, his body was taken to Tallow Church. Friends placed a Tricolour on his coffin and he was buried in the same grave where Tom Hennessy had been interred. At the graveside, his four brothers sang "Wrap the Green Flag Around Me", a favourite song of his.

Just days prior to the ambush, Michael had booked a ticket to America. He had intended to go and live there with his girlfriend. A new life "across the Broad Atlantic" had been his dream. His sweetheart broke down and had to be consoled at his funeral.

The body of Tom Dullard was interred at St. Patrick’s burial ground. 37 year-old Tom had lived in Walkin Street. He had worked for both the Corporation and the Fire Brigade. He left behind him a wife and five children, the youngest a six month old baby. A deeply religious man, he had given his

wife the bulk of his weekly wages.

Members of Kilkenny Corporation were among the throng of local people who turned up to say goodbye to a friend and a neighbour…a good father and a caring husband…to the man who got caught in the crossfire on that terrible day in Friary Street.

Honouring our heroes…

The late author/historian Jim Maher, of the South Circular Road, Kilkenny, did more than most to chronicle the War of Independence in these parts.

Following retirement from his reaching position Jim devoted much of his time to researching the subject. He interviewed scores of former local IRA men and women.

His first book The Flying Column-West Kilkenny and East Tipperary (1987) became an instant classic, and a runaway best-seller locally.

He also wrote a biography of Harry Boland, and the definitive account of how Ireland finally abolished the Oath of Allegiance to Britain.

When Jim was honoured with a Mayoral Award at City Hall in 2022 he told the huge assembly that his dearest wish was to see the creation of a monument to the local men and women of the War of Independence.

Jim Maher author and historian

This immediately struck a chord, not only with those listening to him on the day, but across the county.

The call was soon taken up nationwide and globally by people with Kilkenny connections.

Monuments to Kilkenny soldiers who fell in the Great War have, aptly, been erected in the City and in Callan and indeed memorials exist recalling a range of other aspects of local heritage…but this one has yet to materialize.

Unfortunately, Jim did not live to see his dream realized. He died last year.

However, I’m delighted to say that his quest has since

been taken to heart by a growing lobby of groups and individuals countywide. I note that one group alone has a social media following of more than 800 people on its Facebook/What’s App pages, with many others availing of these forums to support the campaign…adding their voices to the call for a War of Independence Monument in Kilkenny.

Perhaps in the run-up to the local elections in June people who feel strongly about the issue will contact the candidates and ask them to back the necessary funding for a monument.

After all, it’s thanks to the sacrifices of those brave Irish men and women that we have the measure of freedom and independence we’ve got today.

Hopefully, Jim Maher’s heartfelt call for a monument to our heroes will soon be answered...

Let’s have that monument!

My novel, Invaders, tells the story of how a small band of men and women in 17th century Ireland took on one of the most powerful armies in the world.

It’s available from Amazon and Kilkenny bookshops

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Local Cllr welcomes extension of development contributions waiver scheme by Minister Darragh O'Brien Castlecomer Municipal Districts Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick welcomes the decision by Minister Darragh O'Brien to extend the Development Contributions Waiver scheme until the end of the year. This initiative has played a pivotal role in fostering the construction of much-needed housing units Originally scheduled to end on April 24th, the extension comes as a relief to many individuals and developers who have faced challenges, particularly due to adverse weather conditions, in commencing construction projects despite having obtained planning permissions. The extended timeline provides a crucial lifeline, facilitating smoother transitions from planning approval to on-site development. Cllr Fitzpatrick has been a strong advocate for this extension, actively engaging with Minister O'Brien through written correspondences and discussions together with the Association of Local Government (AILG) Recognising the scheme's positive impact on local housing, Cllr Fitzpatrick campaigned to secure an

extension in order to allow continued supports for builders and aspiring homeowners.

Cllr Fitzpatrick expressed thanks to the Minister for his engagement and acceptance of importance of the scheme's role in bolstering housing construction amidst challenging circumstances including the weather he concluded.

Arts Office- EDI Bursary Kilkenny County Council Arts Office is delighted to announce a new bursary supported by The Arts Council offering financial support of €5,000 for artists across all artforms

Pat Fitzpatrick

This opportunity is specific to individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including those based on age, civil or family status, disability, gender, membership of the Traveller Community, race, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.

The bursary aligns with The Arts Council’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Implementation Plan, recognising the challenges faced by such artists who are striving to advance their careers and enhance their artistic practice. By providing an element of financial relief, the bursary will allow the successful applicant the freedom to focus on the development of their practice and if relevant a specific project.

To maximize the impact of the bursary, recipients are encouraged to allocate a portion of the funds toward engaging a mentor, a

Kilkenny County Council takes firm action against illegal sale of bituminous coal and implements Solid Fuel Regulations 2022

The Environmental Department of Kilkenny County Council is taking a strong stance against the illegal sale of bituminous coal and is committed to implementing the Solid Fuel Regulations 2022 to improve air quality and protect public health in the community.

Bituminous coal, known

for its high sulphur content and harmful emissions when burned, is a major contributor to air pollution and poor air quality in urban areas.

Despite the ban on its sale for residential use, illegal vendors continue to distribute this polluting fuel, endangering the health of residents and jeopardizing environmental

efforts to reduce emissions.

In response to this illegal activity, the Environmental Department, in collaboration with enforcement teams, has launched a targeted campaign to crackdown on the sale and distribution of bituminous coal within Kilkenny County.

Through rigorous monitoring, inspections, and enforcement

actions, the Council is determined to hold accountable those who defy the regulations and compromise air quality standards.

Francis Brophy, Executive Engineer in Environmental Enforcement at Kilkenny County Council, states, "The illegal sale of bituminous coal poses a significant threat to

coach, or participating in a short professional development course or retreat of their choice.

The Arts Office is prepared to provide guidance and signpost available options within the artist’s specific artform.

Who can apply • Artist must be from an underrepresented background (see further information on the Arts Councils EDI Implementation plan) • A professional artist for at least 3 yrs • An artist residing in Kilkenny for a minimum of 2yrs • Applicants cannot be an undergraduate student at the time this bursary is offered • Applicants must be over the age of 18 yrs Closing date for applications is 4pm April 30th.

public health and the environment. We are stepping up our enforcement efforts to identify and prosecute individuals and businesses engaged in this unlawful activity. Compliance with the Solid Fuel Regulations is not optional - it is essential for safeguarding the well-being of our community.

Some homeowners are sourcing bituminous (high smoke) coal from outside Kilkenny, specifically from Northern Ireland. This is not only illegal in respect of trade and sale, but also a major contributor to air pollution and significantly impacts people’s health especially those who suffer from asthma, COPD, emphysema and other underlying health conditions”.

The Solid Fuel Regulations 2022, which build upon previous measures to address air pollution from solid fuel burning, set out stricter controls on the quality and composition of fuels used for heating purposes. By transitioning to cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as low-sulphur coal, wood pellets, or eco-friendly briquettes, residents can help reduce emissions and protect air quality in Kilkenny.

Mags Whelan, Environmental Awareness Officer for Kilkenny County Council, emphasises the importance of public cooperation in complying with the regulations. She states, "As we implement the Solid Fuel Regulations 2022, we urge residents to make

sustainable choices when it comes to heating their homes.

By opting for cleaner fuels and energy-efficient practices, we can all play a part in creating a healthier environment for ourselves and future generations."

The Council's enforcement teams are actively conducting inspections and investigations to ensure that retailers and consumers adhere to the legal requirements regarding solid fuels. Non-compliance with the regulations may result in penalties, fines, or legal action, as the Council is committed to upholding environmental laws and protecting air quality standards.

Residents are encouraged to report any instances of illegal bituminous coal sales or non-compliance with the Solid Fuel Regulations to the Environmental Department for prompt action.

You can contact a member of the Environmental team on 056-7794470 or make an environmental complaint via the council’s website: www. kilkennycoco.ie/environment By working together, we can combat air pollution, safeguard public health, and build a cleaner, greener future for Kilkenny.

For more information on the Solid Fuel Regulations 2022 and air quality initiatives in Kilkenny, please visit the Kilkenny County Council's official website at www. kilkennycoco.ie.

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Global Report It’s all gloves off as Democrats take extraordinary steps to prevent Robert F. Kennedy Jr [pictured] from hindering their efforts to keep the White House in November.

A member of the Kennedy family, Robert Jr is a son of US Attorney General and Senator Robert F Kennedy and nephew Of of John F Kennedy and Senator Ted Kennedy.

From rallying Kennedy’s family around President Biden, to dumping opposition research and holding press briefings about how he helps former President Trump, Democrats watching Kennedy qualify for more state ballots are pulling out all the stops to prevent him from hurting Biden in the fall.

“There’s no education in the second kick of the mule,” said Antjuan Seawright, a Democratic strategist who has advised Biden’s presidential campaigns. “In 2016, we saw the impact that third-party candidates had on the election. And we also saw potentially a fault line of not educating enough [about] what votes for those candidates could mean long term for the country.”

“We’re now feeling the results of the 2016 election in 2024,” he added.

Kennedy has made some notable decisions in recent weeks that have caught Democrats’ attention, including choosing a wealthy running mate in Nicole Shanahan and announcing he would not run on the Libertarian Party ticket.

Democrats looking to preserve Biden’s electoral coalition are concerned by his strategy. When Kennedy was hurting for money, they took solace that he may not go the distance, noting how expensive it is to petition for ballots in each state. And when he was toying with a Libertarian bid, they also optimistically hoped he’d chip into Trump’s base instead of Biden’s.

With both challenges now in the rear view, Democrats are focusing on what could come next.

“There will be a clear choice facing voters this November and the more they learn about RFK Jr, the more they will recognise that a vote for him is a vote for Donald Trump,” said Matt Corridoni, a spokesperson with the Democratic National

No holds barred in Democrats v. a Kennedy Committee, which has now dedicated a new department to helping stop Kennedy’s White House bid.

“We’re going to make sure he’s playing by the rules and we’re going to make sure voters are educated about his extreme positions and who is propping up his spoiler candidacy,” Corridoni said.

Kennedy contemplated running as a Libertarian for much of his candidacy, giving himself the option in case things didn’t work out in the Independent lane. But recently , he shot down the idea definitively, saying it’s not part of his calculations and expressing confidence

he’ll be on enough ballots for a third-party November showing.

“We’re not gonna have any problems getting on the ballot ourselves so we won’t be running Libertarian,” Kennedy told ABC News.

Just a few days later, he qualified for the most consequential state yet — Michigan — bringing his battleground total up to four states, along with New Hampshire, Nevada and North Carolina.

His campaign counts nine states in total on the ballot.

Democrats have started pushing back hard. Biden was seen with members of the Kennedy family this

week, who banded together to back the incumbent president. While Biden doesn’t criticise Kennedy, he’s taken some not-so-subtle steps to show voters that RFK Jr. is an outlier among members of his political dynasty.

“His own family is endorsing President Biden today because they know that his ideas are dangerous and he will only help Donald Trump’s reelection,” said Rahna Epting, the executive director of MoveOn, which has led the anti-Kennedy crusade among the Democrats’ progressive wing.

As an independent, Kennedy’s supporter base is not

neatly defined, but Democrats say he most likely will draw from Biden’s voters.

That thinking has worried pro-Biden Democrats who see their mission this election as preserving democracy from a second Trump presidency. Kennedy’s campaign creates a wrinkle in all of that and inspired an outpouring of Democratic resources to focus on ruining his effort to get to the general election.

The pick of Shanahan, a tech patent attorney and multimillionaire from Silicon Valley, was seen by Democrats and Kennedy allies alike as the mark of a more serious campaign with the

potential to go until the fall.

Last week, Shanahan poured $2 million toward Kennedy’s campaign right after he unveiled her as his running mate, furthering Democrats’ suspicions that he tapped her in part to help fund what is projected to be a very expensive bid for nationwide ballot access.

Though he denies choosing Shanahan for her money, Kennedy is nonetheless reaping the rewards. His Michigan ballot access win started his new goal of ticking off multiple states in rapid succession. “We’re going to add probably two to three states a week,” he told ABC News.

How TikTok may be facing the boot in US The US House of Representatives has passed a bipartisan bill 360-58 that places new sanctions on Iran and Russia and it could lead to a ban on TikTok in the US, giving TikTok’s Chinese parent company one year to divest itself of the popular video platform or get blocked.

Tucked inside the 184-page sanctions bill is a provision that forces TikTok’s Chinese parent

company, ByteDance, to sell its stake in the popular video platform to a US-based entity within a year or face a ban. Specifically, it gives ByteDance nine months to divest, and it gives the president the option to tack on a three-month extension.

Lawmakers in both parties have raised national security and data privacy concerns with TikTok. Supporters of the social media app have ques-

tioned the constitutionality of restricting Americans’ rights to free speech.

Last month, the House overwhelmingly passed a standalone bill aimed at potentially blocking TikTok in the US but it didn’t seem to have the votes to pass in the Senate. This time looks different, in part because the TikTok provision is now part of a much broader bill with more support. Beyond

that, the previous House bill gave ByteDance six months to divest, and at least one key Democratic senator who opposed that bill is on board with the new proposal because of the extended time frame for divestment.

The issue has divided 2024 presidential hopefuls. President Joe Biden has already said he’d sign legislation targeting TikTok if Congress passes it.

Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, has flip- flopped, first saying he would support a ban and more recently saying never mind, he supports the social media app.

In a tweet, TikTok called it “unfortunate” that lawmakers are threatening to ban its services in the US and warned that doing so could hurt the US economy.

“It is unfortunate that the House of Representatives is using the cover of important foreign and humanitarian assistance to once again jam through a ban bill that would trample the free speech rights of 170 million Americans, devastate seven million businesses, and shutter a platform that contributes $24 billion to the US economy, annually,” the company tweeted.

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Talbot's Inch

A short history of Talbot’s Inch The picturesque village of Talbots Inch. Photo Pat Shortall

PART 1 The picturesque village of Talbot’s Inch stands on the west bank of the River Nore in the northern suburbs of Kilkenny City.

Contemporary accounts described Talbot’s Inch as a ‘garden village’ but it is more accurately described as a model village Talbot’s Inch is a townland in County Kilkenny about one mile north of the city.

The lands were named after a Norman family Talbot but whether they had residence there is no known record.

On the southern side of the Inch or meadows in the right angle bend of the river Nore, the remains of a court yard wall and flagstones were to be seen up to 150 years ago. This was claimed to be the ruins of a house but if so it was in a very bad position as this field floods every year. More likely it was a bawn for cattle. It was mentioned that gold and silver were buried there, more about this story later.

The Talbots were among the first of the Norman families to settle in Kilkenny. Their story and history is similar to other Norman families who were witnesses and took very little part in commercial activities in the city or county. Then at a later time when they were prominent citizens their names occurred constantly in city and county records.

Gilbert Talbot an ancestor of the Earl of Shrewsbury married Petronilla daughter of James 1st Earl of Ormonde, and a later connection between the families was the marriage of Elizabeth daughter of the 4th Earl of Ormonde with John Talbot 4th Earl of Shrewsbury.

The earliest mention of the Talbots is 1233 and many of the early references to them refer to them acting as witnesses to deeds, rents, and grants pertaining to the settlement of lands the Normans had acquired.

Theobald Walter Butler of Ireland is the chief figure in these deeds and it is interesting to note that at first he was Theobald Walter Chief Butler of Ireland and

this gradually changed in the course of one hundred years to Sir Walter De Butler.

The mention of lands at Talbot’s Inch is in a deed of 1332, when Thomas Parmenter grants to Richard son of Peter de Arderne of Kilkenny and the heirs male of the same for ever all his right in two acres and one stang of land in the burgage of Irishtown lying in length between the lands of William Geoffrey and in breadth from the lands of John Talbot to the lane which leads to Talbots Ynche. This lane is still in existence and was part of the old road to Freshford, it started at the foot of Bishops Hill where a branch leads down to the Bishops Meadows In 1342 William Fowler grants to Peter de Arderne

The Talbots Inch Suspension bridge was built by Lady Desart in 1912 to facilitate the safe crossing of her workers from Talbots Inch Village across the River Nore to the Greenvale Woollen Mills

two and a half acres of arable land which lies in length from the highway leading to the grange of Robert Fitz Hugh to John Talbots land and in breadth from the land of the said Robert to the lands of the Bishop of Ossory. (The Bishop’s Meadows)

In 1342 William Fowler grants to Peter de Arderne two and a half acres of arable land which lies in length from the highway leading to the grange of Robert Fitz Hugh to John Talbots land and in breadth from the land of the said Robert to the lands of the Bishop of Ossory.

(The Bishop’s Meadows)

In 1322 Thomas Talbot was granted a pardon for trespass against the Crown in consideration of services he had rendered in fighting against the O’Nolans and other native clans on the Eastern borders of Kilkenny.

From this time on the

Talbots became increasingly prominent in the affairs of the town and county. John Talbot in 1334 and 1340 was Sheriff of Kilkenny and had to render an account to the court of barons of his work.

There must have been an error in his accounts because the

Today, a large piece of concrete juts out from the river. The suspension cables from the bridge would have come back and tied onto this . Due to overgrown vegetation , the ramp cannot be seen

Seneschall of Kilkenny was ordered to arrest Talbot so he could give a statement of his arrears. Five years later he was again before the courts to render an account and he was short of cash by £10-10s 3d. and he was committed to the custody of the town marshal.

It is not known if he was kept in prison for almost three years but on the 10th March 1348 a mandate was issued from the Treasurer of Kilkenny to the Seneschall of the town suspending the distraint and he was forgiven the debt to the extent of £10-6s-9d leaving 3s-6d unaccounted for. In spite of these troubles he was a very esteemed man of good credit for in 1366 he was accepted as surety for John de la Freyne and went bail for both the Seneschall of the liberties of Kilkenny and the Sheriff of the cross of Kilkenny. Again in 1357 he was Portreieve. When a very old man in 1381 he went surety for his son Robert as Sheriff, it is presumed he died around this time, his tomb is in St. Canice’s Cathedral but no date recording his death.

It is believed this John Talbot is of the Ormond deeds who left three sons all who are mentioned in the City records.

Next week part 2

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Government incompetence sees 82,232 cancellations in Ireland East Hospital Groups in 2023 BY: DEPUTY KATHLEEN FUNCHION SINN FEIN TD FOR KILKENNY CARLOW Sinn Féin TD for Carlow Kilkenny has revealed 82,323 cancellations across the Ireland East Hospital group, according to new data released to Sinn Féin spokesperson on Health David Cullinane TD by the HSE. Teachta Funchion said that the Government’s lack of a plan for overcrowding was impacting directly on waiting lists through cancellations.

They said that the Government was shifting the problem from emergency departments to waiting lists, leaving patients waiting longer for access to care.

The TD for Carlow Kilkenny said that Sinn Féin has a plan to improve the health service by delivering 3,000 hospital and community beds, ending the recruitment embargo, training more healthcare professionals, and investing in local health services.

Teachta Funchion said: “The Government is failing

to tackle hospital overcrowding which is leading to record levels of cancellations. There were more than 82,232 hospital appointments cancelled across the Ireland East Hospital Group in 2023.

“13 years of Varadkar, Harris, and Donnelly have made the health service worse. They have decimated local health services and created a crisis in our hospitals. The Government does not have a plan for hospital overcrowding, and this is forcing hospitals to rely on cancellations. This is shifting the problem from overcrowded emergency departments onto lengthy waiting lists. It is not a sustainable solution.

“Sinn Féin has a plan for the health service to improve access, tackle hospital overcrowding, and reduce lengthy waiting lists.

We would deliver 3,000 hospital and community beds to tackle overcrowd-

ing and inefficiency; end the recruitment embargo and train more health care professionals to safely staff the health service; and invest in better local health services including GP care and a pharmacy first model.

“Sinn Féin would fast-track elective centres so that we can separate unscheduled, emergency care from scheduled surgeries and procedures. This will increase surgical theatre capacity, help to reduce the number of cancellations, and free up capacity in hospitals for emergency care.

“We would also invest in home support, community step-down beds, and diagnostic capacity so that patients can be discharged home or to a supported care setting when they are ready, and to ensure that patients’ experiences are not delayed by lengthy waiting lists for scans.

“Simon Harris will not fix in 10 months the disaster which Fine Gael have created over 13 years. IT’s time for a Health Minister who will stand up for people and deliver the change that the health service needs.”

Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny scoops coveted Fáilte Ireland Employers Excellence award Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny management and employees are celebrating a prestigious win, having been awarded the Best Employer in the Small Business category in the Fáilte Ireland Employers Excellence Program.

It’s the first time ever that the visitor experience entered the competition.

This coveted win comes as the peak tourist season begins in Kilkenny and the start of the renowned Barrel Yard Sessions at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny every weekend from the first weekend in May to the last weekend in September.

The festivities at the historysteeped, city centre location include live music and DJ sessions and delicious food prepared and served on-site from a variety of top-class food truck vendors.

Ignacio Peregrina, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny Manager, said he was overwhelmed with gratitude and humility as the team accept the prestigious award as part of the Employers Excellence Program. “This recognition is not just an honour for our organisation, but a testament to the collective dedication and hard work of every individual

Pictured at the Awards were Martin Hanrahan, Operations Manager at Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny; Ann Murphy, Administration and Finance Manager at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny; Ignacio Peregrina, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny Manager and Sarah Dolly, Head of Tourism Careers, Failte Ireland.

at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny.

“Receiving this award is an indescribable feeling. It's a validation of our commitment to creating an environ-

ment where every employee feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. It's a reminder that our efforts in fostering a culture of inclusivity, growth, and innovation

have not gone unnoticed.

“What makes Smithwick's Experience an excellent employer? It's our unwavering belief that our greatest asset is our people. We prioritise

their well-being, professional development, and work-life balance. We invest in creating opportunities for growth, providing comprehensive training programs, and fos-

tering a culture of continuous learning.

“But beyond policies and programs, it's the sense of community and belonging that sets us apart. We celebrate diversity and embrace the unique perspectives and talents each individual brings to the table. We cultivate an environment where we encourage autonomy, collaboration, ideas are valued, and everyone has a voice.”

At Smithwick's Experience, excellence isn't just a goal; it's a journey the entire team embarks on together every day, he added. “It's about striving for delivering memorable experiences every day, pushing boundaries, and challenging ourselves to be better than we were yesterday. This award is not the culmination of our efforts but a milestone in our ongoing quest for excellence.

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of the Smithwick's Experience family for their dedication, passion, and hard work.

This award belongs to each and every one of you. Let's continue to innovate, inspire, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve,” he concluded.

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The Country Boy Cast of The Country Boy which will be staged by Laois Drama Group Fourth Wall at Thomastown Concert Hall

John Murphy’s Country Boy to be staged at Thomastown Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group’s production of John Murphy’s play “The Country Boy” is a humorous but poignant love story that examines emigration, the impact of dreams on reality, and the challenges of returning home after seeking a better life abroad.

That John Murphy didn’t pen a second play is a shame.

The Country Boy’ is one of those plays that will always stand the test of time.

Having experienced the hurt of emigration himself,Murphy can, and does, create the perfect ‘Country Boy’.

Of course the play deals with many emotions and relationships but the theme of emigration seems to be at the root of most issues dealt with in this drama.

At the time when John

Murphy was considering his future employment, most rural families saw the majority of their children leave the locality. The eldest son, ready to take over the farm, could not do so, or easily marry, until his father retired – not a speedy matter, since one third of all farmers in 1946 were over 65 years of age .

Hence the phenomenon of the rural bachelor, and lonely hearts advertisements which began:‘Youth, aged 44, desires wife’.

At the time, the ‘social scene’ was the square formed by two roads. Known as the crossroads, it was a good enough place to meet to have a dance. In many rural isolated areas , it was often the only place.

In ‘The Country Boy’, John Murphy writes about the

Dancing at the cross.... Murphy wrote of a time when the social life of rural communities entailed dancing at the crossroads

real live in country areas in Ireland.

He had intended writing a play about the Irish in America, but as he said “ the inspiration didn’t travel with him”. Let us be thankful that he wrote ‘The Country Boy’.

In an article for ‘The Journal’ in 2000 then IFA president Tom Parlon wrote about John Murphy’s play. “It is wonderful to see amateur drama groups perform plays like The Country Boy’ which reflects aspects of rural life in Ireland”, said the IFA leader.

Mr Parlon continued: “Plays such as this allow us to understand the events and periods of Irish History which have shaped todays

farming and rural Life.

Theatre is a powerful medium and the story of emigration in Ireland in the 1950’s as told by John Murphy affected the majority of Irish familes”, continued Mar Parlon.

PLAYED AT THE ABBEY The play was first performed at The Abbey Theatre Dublin in 1959. Director of the National theatre Earnest Blythe, said that while he wasn’t placing Murphy among names like O’Casey and Synge, he did believe that John Murphy gave hope for new writers in Irish theatre.

Blythe believed that in the play real problems, personal and social are penetratingly discussed, not for the sake of reaching conclusions or suggesting remedies,

but for the correct dramatic purpose of revealing the thoughts and feelings, hopes and fears of the people in the play.

Synopsis Eddie returns to Ireland with his American wife Julia intent on bringing his brother Curly to America.

Curly is in love with the lively and beautiful Eileen but feels he must emigrate alone to make his fortune and return in a few years to marry her.

Curly’s mother Mary Kate’s heart is breaking at the thought of him leaving, while her husband Tom does not think time is right to hand over the farm to Curly. He does not want Eileen to “fill the house with screetchin’ childer”.

IFA president in 2000,Tom Parlon praised John Murphy's play for highlighting rural life

The empty stateroom trunk that the American couple brings serves as a powerful metaphor for the emptiness and disappointment that Eddie carries from his years away.

Eddie denigrates his wife as a “fat cow” but Julia rises to a new dignity as she becomes aware of her supportive role during Eddie’s dreams and struggles.

Will Curly follow in Eddie’s footsteps? Will Eileen be left to wait? Will Eddie and Julia reconcile? Will Tom and Mary Kate be left with an empty nest?

The Country Boy will be presented by Fourth Wall theatre group at Thomastown Concert Hall May 3rd and 4th at 8pm.

Booking 087 7728170

Playwright’s ashes are buried on Nephin... Led by a piper, the funeral cortège for John Murphy wends its way up Nephin Mountain where his ashes were scattered

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New Mayfair City Library officially opened

Minister Humphreys at the official opening of the Mayfair Library Kilkenny with children from 4th Class St. John’s Senior School.

Photo by Vicky Comerford

Kilkenny welcomed Minister Heather Humphreys today to officially open the new Mayfair City Library. This facility, previously home to the Mayfair Ballroom, has been transformed into a major public facility with more than 1,800 square metres of community library space available over two floors.

The project was funded

by Minister Humphrey's Department of Rural and Community Development and Kilkenny County Council representing an investment of just under €7.2m.

The Mayfair Library reflects what a 21st Century library should be with comfortable seating and browsing areas, dedicated community exhibition space, programming and events throughout the year, public internet access, printing and scanning facilities, makerspace with 3D printing and scanning, sewing machines and more.

The facility will operate as a “My Open Library” space available for use to registered users for up to 98 hours per week making it an accessible space for study and contemplation at the times that suit people the most.

Speaking at today’s official opening and welcoming the new Mayfair Library, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael Doyle, said that “The Abbey Quarter is open for business and blossoming into the multi-purpose vibrant city centre space that we all envisaged it would be”, providing community facilities for everybody to access.

Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr.

Joe Malone, speaking at the event reflected on the importance of the Carnegie Library to the City for the last 100 years and with the new Mayfair building acknowledged that “Kilkenny County Council will now have two buildings of significant heritage and cultural interest (The Carnegie Library and The Mayfair Library), refurbished and restored to meet modern standards and repurposed to serve our City for many years to come.”

The facilities at the new Mayfair library will allow for the continued expansion of library services in Kilkenny representing an investment in our communities and citizens.

New buildings and capital

investment in the Kilkenny Library service is ongoing with the official opening of the Mayfair Library today, the commencement of construction of a new library building in Thomastown and the proposed development of a new facility in Callan town centre. This capital investment will increase both the quality and usage of libraries across Kilkenny.

In an era where information is abundant yet often access remains unequal, the importance of public libraries has never been greater.

Kilkenny County Council's overall library development programme which includes the Mayfair City Library and future projects at Thomastown, Callan and the Carnegie Library demonstrates a real commitment to the principles of education, literacy, reliable information and democracy. Opening the doors on the Mayfair facility today makes available a fantastic library to every citizen of the County for generations to come.

The library will open for the first time to the public at 10am on Thursday, April 25th until 8pm.

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Baked cauliflower pizzaiola Prep: 15 mins Cook: 40 mins Serves: 4

There’s no need to make a tomato sauce for this Italian-style vegetarian one-pot – the oven will do the work for you.

Ingredients • 1 large cauliflower, cut into 8 wedges • 2 tbsp olive oil, plus 1 tbsp for roasting • 600g ripe tomatoes (we used a mixture of red and yellow cherry tomatoes), halved or quartered depending on their size • 6 unpeeled garlic cloves, bashed • small pack basil • ½ small pack fresh oregano, or ½ tsp dried • pinch of chilli flakes • 4 tbsp dry white wine • 2 tbsp vegetarian Italian-style hard cheese • 3 tbsp breadcrumbs • 125g mozzarella (check the pack for a vegetarian brand), torn • crusty bread, to serve • green salad, to serve STEP 1 Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Brush the cauliflower wedges with the 1 tbsp oil, then put them in a large roasting dish. Season and roast for 10 mins or until beginning to soften. Carefully turn the wedges over.

STEP 2 Tuck the tomatoes, garlic and most of the basil and oregano around the

cauliflower, then sprinkle with the chilli flakes, wine and 2 tbsp more oil. Season and return to the oven for 25 mins or until the tomatoes are soft and starting to catch here

and there. Squish the tomatoes slightly to help the juices flow.

STEP 3 Mix the vegetarian Italian-style

Spring chicken one-pot Prep: 10 mins Cook: 55 mins Serves: 4 Use basil pesto and crème fraîche for the sauce in this Italian-inspired casserole with greens and new potatoes.

Ingredients • 1 tbsp olive oil • 8 chicken thighs, skin on and bone in • 1 onion, sliced • 200g streaky bacon, chopped • 1 carrot, chopped

• 2 large spring greens, shredded • 600ml chicken stock • 300g baby new potato • 2 tbsp crème fraîche • 2 tbsp basil pesto • crusty bread, to serve (optional) Method STEP 1 Heat the oil in a large, heavy-based pan with a lid. Season the chicken and brown all over. Remove the chicken to a plate and cook the onion and bacon for 5 mins until softened and lightly coloured.

STEP 2 Return the chicken to the pan, and add the remaining ingredients, except the crème fraîche and pesto, along with plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Bring to the boil, then cover and gently simmer for 30-40 mins until the potatoes are tender and chicken cooked through.

STEP 3 Stir in the crème fraîche and pesto.

Serve with some crusty bread for mopping up the sauce, if you like.

hard cheese and breadcrumbs together. Tear the mozzarella over the cauliflower and tomatoes, scatter over the cheesy crumbs and bake for 10 mins

more or until the topping is crisp and the cauliflower is tender. Top with the rest of the herbs and serve with crusty bread and a green salad.

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5 Baby Reindeer is graphic and explicit Baby Reindeer on Netflix is an excellent series. It’s moving, well-written, and anchored by two phenomenal performances by actors Richard Gadd and Jessica Gunning [pictured].

It’s a visceral and unflinching examination of sexual abuse and its aftermath and currently has a perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. The series comes highly recommended to everyone, but if you are sensitive to topics like sexual assault and grooming the series might not be the best choice. It could absolutely be triggering and too disturbing for some viewers.

The story hinges on a struggling comedian who develops a warped relationship with his female stalker, a woman named Martha.

Baby Reindeer was created by and written by Richard Gadd, who based it on his real-life story. Gadd also stars in the series as the lead

character Donny Dunn.

Here’s what viewers should expect from the show in terms of content/ trigger warnings. Baby Reindeer is rated for language, nudity, sex, sexual violence, and substances.

Parents curious if this is an okay show to put on in the background while hanging out with their children: steer clear. Even if some of the content goes over their heads, this show is really not for children.

There isn’t much explicit nudity in Baby Reindeer.

You’re not going to see fullfrontal nudity, but there is still nudity in the series.

Characters are shown having sex, in states of undress, in the shower, etc., but no explicit is shown oncamera.

However, there are still graphic depictions of sexual violence and assault. Sex is also an important topic in the show as the main

character, Donny, grapples with being a victim of serious trauma that impacts his dating and sex life. There are a few sex scenes, too, mostly just at the end of the fourth episode.

Baby Reindeer features heavy topics like grooming and sexual violence. It is by no means a lighthearted series. While it does have some darkly comedic moments, it’s still primarily a drama focusing on one man’s trauma. The fourth episode is the heaviest, as it details what happened to Donny in the past, specifically when he was groomed and assaulted by a man he was working for previously.

If any of those topics are triggering for you, you might want to skip the series altogether because sexual violence is a prevalent theme throughout. Donny’s stalker, Martha, also harasses and violates him on several occasions, at least once physi-

cally that’s shown on camera but her emails, texts, and rants can also be triggering as they’re frequently laden with homophobia, transphobia, and more.

Apart from the topics mentioned above, Baby Reindeer obviously has other mature elements like cursing (pretty much every curse word you could think of), drinking, drug usage, and violence. Martha becomes violent toward a few characters in the show, attacking one of Donny’s love interests and later breaking a glass over his head. Drugs like PCP and LSD are used like date rape drugs in the fourth episode. There are seven 30-minute episodes. * On a footnote, this paper’s Editor believes Baby Reindeer is over-rated. It’s good, very good in parts and powerfully acted but overall is undeserving of the attention it is garnening.

Celine Dion: her long battle with illness Celine Dion’s new documentary, which covers the scope of her recent health challenges as she focuses on her music and life away from the spotlight, is coming soon!

Amazon Prime Video, the studio behind the upcoming release titled I Am: Celine Dion, has announced the documentary has been set for a June 25 release.

The documentary gives us a raw and honest behindthe-scenes look at the iconic superstar’s struggle with a life-altering illness. Serving as a love letter to her fans, this inspirational documentary highlights the music that has guided her life while also showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

“I decided I wanted to document this part of my life, to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition, to help others who share this

diagnosis,” says the 56-yearold star.

The 102 minute documentary feature was announced back in January, ahead of Celine’s surprise appearance

at the 66th Grammy Awards in early February, and promises a deeper look inside her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome over the past year and a half.

It is also said to feature intimate glimpses of her couture touring wardrobe, follows her into the recording studio, and shares a more personal look at her family life, slated to be “emotional, energetic, and poetic love letter to music” in an official statement.

“This last couple of years has been such a challenge for me, the journey from discovering my condition to learning how to live with and manage it, but not to let it define me.

“As the road to resuming my performing career continues, I have [realised] how much I have missed it, of being able to see my fans. During this absence, I decided I wanted to document this part of my life, to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition, to help others who share this diagnosis.”

Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

steamy movies you can watch this week 1. Eyes Wide Shut

Starring Hollywood superstars Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman in lead roles, this is one of the most engaging erotic movies with a dash of psychological mystery. Dr William Harford, or Bill as he is called in the movie (Tom), lives with his wife Alice Harford (Nicole), and daughter, Helena (Madison Eginton) in New York. After a party, Alice’s revelation about her sexual fantasies about a naval officer she met during one of her vacations and the thought of leaving Bill and Helena, upsets Bill. He then takes drastic steps toward fulfilling his sexual fantasies. A masterpiece. On Apple+ TV.

2. 365 Days

This is a Polish erotic romantic drama in which the plot revolves around Laura Biel, a sales director, who is kidnapped by a Sicilian mafia boss named Massimo Torricelli. Massimo gives Laura 365 days to fall in love with him, with the hope that she will choose to stay with him willingly. There’s role-playing, sadomasochism, and a lot more steamy stuff. The movie explores themes of obsession, desire, and the blurred lines between consent and coercion. On Netflix.

3. Sex/Life

Billie Connelly is a married woman who leads a luxurious life and has two children.

She’s married to an investment banker, Cooper. But, Billie is feeling increasingly dissatisfied with her passionless marriage and is going through a midlife crisis. Her dull, boring life takes an exciting turn when her ex, Brad Simon, reappears, bringing with him memories of their sizzling past. Not for family viewing. On Netflix

4. Love & Anarchy

This sexy Swedish drama revolves around married Sofie who takes up a job as a consultant to revive a publishing house. There she meets a young IT guy, Max, who records Sofie’s self-pleasuring activities at the workplace. A turned-on Max strikes a bargain with Sofie and the two soon get into a torrid affair.

There are some high-octane raunchy scenes and a dash of blackmail that turns Sofie’s life upside down. On Netflix.

5. Easy

Also on Netflix, this anthology focuses on individuals living in Chicago and is all about sex, love, BDSM, open relationships, polygamy, and all the frills. The various stories in this anthology present a different take on love and relationship. Every episode will have you glued to the screen.

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Body fat & inflammation How body fat influences inflammation

BY PAUL BOLGER Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny WWW.NANOPHYSIO.IE

Fat is amazing – it is vital for life. It is an energy reserve.

A camel’s hump is not full of water, it is a nutritious store of fat – how do you think they survive long periods without food in the desert?

Fat is also vital for the body’s functions – from the structure of our cells to many hormones circulating in our bloodstream, fat is a key building block.

Fat keeps us insulated and protected from the outside environment. However, carrying excessive fat for long periods of time has wide-ranging health effects.

Many of these effects appear to be due to fat’s influence on inflammation.

Losing weight helps to lower systemic inflammation. This seriously reduces the risk of countless health conditions affecting literally every cell in the body – including disorders of the brain (e.g. dementia), heart and circulation (heart disease, stroke and clogged arteries) and the joints (rheumatoid and osteoarthritis).

Fat Cells are Alive Fat cells, like almost everything in our body, are alive. They release chemical signals into the bloodstream that can have affects all over the body.

Fat is stored in globular balls within fat cells. In the

past, our ancestors would fill their fat stores when they had plenty of food, and they would burn these fat stores when food was scarce. These days we have a constant supply of food sitting in the fridge!

When fat cells become filled to their limit, they

become stressed. They respond by releasing proinflammatory cytokines (i.e. chemicals). When this process continues over a long period of time it contributes towards systemic inflammation.

You Cannot Outrun a Bad

Top of their game Berkeley Wolves Under 15 Boys Basketball Team wins the South East Top 4 Finals

The Berkeley Wolves Under 15 Boys Basketball team won the South East top 4 play offs over the weekend. The Berkeley Boys played againts

the Wexford Basketball Club in the semi final and as predicted this game was a nail biter with the game neck and neck from start to finish. The Wolves

played tough defence containing Wexfords star Spanish player Guillermo Pardaljaraw and winning the game by 3 points in the end (40-43). In

the final the Wolves faced up against the very tall Kildare Larrie Birds team who beat the Carlow team in the other Semin Final. This was also a

Diet When it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, there is no secret sauce. The most important factor is how much we eat (and drink). Exercise, while amazing for our health, won’t cut it alone. Diet is key.

In the past, lack of food was a major issue. These days, in countries like Ireland, excessive eating is a much bigger problem.

There are many ways to cut down food intake – but I can’t go into detail here – do you have any strategies that work for you? Some options include reducing portion size (smaller plates) and ensuring to stick to a list when shopping.

It is worth considering that most food companies want you to eat as much of their products as possible. The more people eat, the higher their profits. Strategic placement of food in supermarkets, eye-catching packaging and targeted advertising campaigns are all utilised so you will fill your trolley with their products.

Why is a physiotherapist talking about diet?

As a physiotherapist, I am not a dietary expert – best see a registered dietician for any individual advice.

However, I see people every day for whom body weight is a major contributor to their pain or health complaint. This is becoming more of a widespread issue – contributing to many of the aches and pains that people suffer from today.

As individuals we can all do a little bit more. But what can we do as a society to combat this growing problem?

very tight game for the first 3 quarters before the Berkeley lads pulled away to secure victory in the final quarter.

Coach Russ Ryan said that we really enjoyed the season in what was a very competeitive league, we are thrilled to have had the opportunity to get into our first top four play offs and play two really strong teams, any of the teams who qualified for the finals in this division could easily have walked away with the final win, but we are delighted that we pulled through in the end. The Kilkenny Stars did a great job in hosting the event in Kilkenny City where teams from all over the South East competed in the different age groups. Special thanks to all of the parents who supported the team, Grennan Collge in Thomastown, KRSP who has helped in the development of our small club and to our sponsors Walsh’s Centra in Thomastown.

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Sport

Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary

Limestone lad Limestone Lad died over the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend just four days short of his 32nd birthday, and he was a horse who's popularity captured the public as his front running style made him a firm favorite.

Owned, trained and bred by James Bowe in Gathabawn, Limestone Lad was placed in 54 of his 65 starts winning 35 of his races, and unquestionably his greatest triumph was his defeat of the legendary Istabraq in The Hattons Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse in 1999.

He was a model of consistency throughout his career winning a further two Hattons Grace Hurdles in 2001 and 2002, while he also won The Morgiana Hurdle three times (1999, 2001 and 2002), The Christmas Hurdle twice (1999 and 2002) along with the Grade 1 Champion Stayers Hurdle at The Punchestown Festival in 2002. He was also placed twice in the Stayers Hurdle in Cheltenham in 2000 and 2003.

However, his career was a slow burner to begin with.

As a three-year-old he was put up for sale, but was rejected after

failing a medical examination that in hindsight was a blessing.

He was unplaced in his first four starts, before gaining his first win in a Ladies Bumper at The Limerick Christmas Festival in 1997 with a comprehensive victory.

Michael Bowe who is son of the trainer of Limestone Lad James Bowe recalled "I suspected we had something exciting on our hands when he won that day. My lasting memory after that race was holding him in the car park, giving him a piece of grass with a band playing in the background.

They were playing Perfect Day – and it was" By coincidence, Perfect Day by various leading music artists was The Christmas No. 1 in The Irish Singles Charts in 1997, and it was more than a good omen as their were plenty more perfect days to come in the years ahead.

Further victories would follow in a Bumper in Naas before winning his Maiden Hurdle in Clonmel.

Things began to take off in the 1998/1999 season with 7 wins from his 10 starts - all in Handicap Hurdles - with 4 of

those victories coming in Leopardstown.

The following season (1999/2000) saw Limestone Lad reach greater heights with his popularity soaring, and his famous victory over Istabraq in The Hattons Grace Hurdle saw him achieve national fame.

He had won the hearts and affection of the nation, and his popularity rivalled the likes of Istabraq, Danoli, Dorans Pride and Dawn Run. A landslide victory in The Christmas Hurdle at The Leopardstown Christmas Festival followed, before attention turned to Cheltenham where he was strongly fancied for The Stayers Hurdle.

However, despite a gallant attempt he finished a close second

U-12 hurling tournament

By Michael O’Leary All going well, the annual Young Irelands U-12 Tournament will take place in Castle Ellis next Saturday, and this year’s Tournament will honour the memory of Charlie Carter Senior and also John and Kathleen O'Neill.

Eight Teams from across the county will compete with Cup and Shield competitions up for grabs.

The Cup competition will honour Charlie Carter Senior who was a long serving Young Irelands stalwart. Charlie gave trojan service to the Club as a player and mentor, and he was always an ever present as a supporter at Young Irelands matches.

In 1996, he was a selector on one of the greatest days in Young Irelands history as they won their very first County Senior Championship, while in 1992 he was sub-goalie on The Young Irelands Team that won the Intermediate County Final.

Meanwhile, the 2002 County Senior Final win was very special for Charlie and his wife Stella as their three sons Ollie, Martin and Davy all featured in that famous triumph, while Charlie's nephews Charlie Junior, Cathal and James also featured in that win as Young Irelands defeated Dunnamaggin.

Martin is actually man-

aging The Young Irelands U-12s this year, and Saturday's tournament will attach extra significance as it will honour his Dad's memory.

The Shield competition will honour Kathleen and John O'Neill who were staunch hurling followers, and they were often went to Young Irelands and Kilkenny matches especially when their son Pat was playing.

Kathleen was from Dun-

namaggin originally and they defeated Young Irelands in The County Final in 1997 with Pat playing for The Gowran men, while her brother Tommy Brennan was a highly successful showjumper and eventer who acheived International success and he was part of The Ireland Team that won the Gold Medal at The Eventing World Championships in Burghley in 1966.

to The Nicky Henderson trained Bacchanal who was bred by Kilkenny man Martyn McEnery from Kells who also bred Red Rum to a hat-trick of Aintree Grand National triumphs.

Limestone Lad was switched to fences during the 2000/2001 season, and he made an instant impact with four consecutive victories including two Grade 3 Novice Chases in Punchestown.

However, a disappointing run in The Grade 1 Drinmore Novice Chase in Fairyhouse saw the decision to revert him back to hurdling as he went onto to further successes. On his return to the smaller obstacles in early 2001 he won in Naas and Navan, but an attempt at Cheltenham glory was thwarted by the foot and mouth outbreak.

In the 2001/2002 season, Limestone Lad won a second Morgiana Hurdle in a thrilling finish following a battle royale against Ned Kelly, before following up with a second Hattons Grace Hurdle.

Unfortunately, injury ruled him out of The Cheltenham Festival in 2002, but he returned to action with victory in The Grade 1 Champion Stayers Hurdle at The Punchestown Festival.

The 2002/2003 season was Limestone Lad's final season in action, and he recorded 5 consecutive victories including winning both The Morgiana Hurdle and Hattons Grace Hurdle for the third time, while his final victory came at The Leopardstown Christmas Festival with a very impressive performance in winning his second Christmas Hurdle.

He returned to Leopardstown one last time as a now 11-year-old to run in The Irish Champion Hurdle, but just lost out by the narrowest of margins to Like A Butterfly following an epic finish.

Cheltenham beckoned in what would prove to be his swansong as he lined up in The Stayers Hurdle. He started off 9/4 joint favorite along with The

French trained Baracouda who won The Stayers the previous year in 2002.

Limestone Lad applied his trademark front running tactics in an attempt to make all but despite another valiant effort, he finished third behind Baracouda who defended his Stayers crown in a thrilling finish.

Following an accomplished career with so many great memories Limestone Lad was retired to stud, but just as he was winding down his career Solerina arrived to keep the flag flying high for The Bowe family.

Solerina would emulate the feat of her stable companion by winning three Hattons Grace Hurdles (2003-2005), and she won 22 of her 40 starts.

Both horses were renowned for their front running tactics similar to how Paula Radcliffe ran when she was competing It was such a pleasure and a joy for The Bowe family to have had two terrific horses that captured the hearts of the public.

Both Limestone Lad and Solerina earned around €1.5 million between them for their efforts, but it was the sheer joy that gave a small stable and family in Gathabawn so many wonderful and unforgetable memories that will live on.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news CLARA SENIOR FOOTBALL The Clara seniors bowed out of the championship on Saturday when losing out to champions Mullinavat at the quarter final stage in Clara. Alan Coleman got the first score of the game but that was the only time of the game that Clara held the lead. The game was tied at two points each after 9 minutes when Clara were reduced to 14 players on the back of a red card. To add salt to the wound Mullinavat scored the next 1-2 to take a firm grip on proceedings. Mullinavat maintained that five point lead to the break, when it was 1-6 to 0-4.

The winners also scored the first three points of the second half and, after Martin O Connell had pegged one back for Clara, they hit for two goals either side of a point and that was that. It petered out to a 3-11 to 0-7 conclusion and the Mullinavat football machine rolls on.

Team - Rory O Keeffe, James Dowling, David Langton, Sean O Shea 0-1. Dara Glynn, Conor O Shea, Liam Ryan 0-2. Jack Langton, Martin O Connell 0-2. Alan Coleman 0-1, Kevin Nolan, Cian Kelly 0-1f. Tom Ryan, Killian Phelan, Peter Nolan.

Subs used Ned Langton, Paddy Bolger, Ben Murphy, Sean Carrigan, Alex McDonald.

MINOR HURLING Clara opened their league campaign with a 2-13 to 1-16 draw with Mount Leinster Rangers on Monday of last week in Clara. A late Joe Power free gave them a share of the spoils.

The Rangers had the better of the first half and led 0-8 to 0-5 at halftime.

Two second half goals by Conor Hoyne and Aidan O Connell helped Clara into a four point lead but Mount Leinster Rangers regained the initiative and the lead before Joe’s late effort.

Team - Conor Galvin, John Bergin, Philip Carrigan, Tom Murphy. Orí Phelan, Luke Lawlor, Dylan Cummins. Conor Hoyne 1-5, 0-3f, Pádraic Meany 0-1. Sean Byrne, Joe Power 0-5, 0-3f, Eoin Corr 0-1. Tommy Delaney 0-1, Aidan O Connell 1-0, Sam Lawlor. Subs Peter Firbank, Ruairi Bowden Mullen, Jim Carrigan.

SENIOR CAMOGIE Clara suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Windgap on Sunday morning in Clara. Windgap only had 13 players and Clara sportingly agreed to playing with similar numbers.

In perfect conditions the Windgap girls were the better team from the start but Clara only trailed 0-5 to 0-3 midway through the half, the scores coming from Aisling Curtis, Gráinne Glynn and a Laoise Nolan free. Then a purple patch by the Windgap girls yielded 2-3. Gráinne Glynn stopped the rot with her second point but Windgap rounded off the half with two more points to bring a 2-10 to 0-4 lead into the interval.

Windgap goaled right from the throw in at the start of the second half and the margin of victory was all that was left to decide. To Clara’s credit they reeled off the next 3 points by Laoise Nolan, Niamh Byrne and Gráinne Glynn but Windgap added a further 1-5 to their total and the game finished at 4-15 to 0-7.

Team - Aoife Glynn, Sarah Dunne, Katie Ryan, Aoife Treacy.

Aine McDonald, Laoise Nolan 0-2, 0-1f, 0-1 x 45, Grace Barcoe.

Aisling Curtis 0-1. Joanne Comerford, Gráinne Glynn 0-3, 0-1f, Rebecca Nolan. Niamh Ward, Siobhan Treacy, Margaret Kehoe. Subs Niamh Byrne 0-1, Peig Carrigan.

CLUB LOTTO Lotto results for 16th April; Numbers Drawn - 5, 22, 25.

Congratulations to Jack O’Keeffe, the winner of the €1,300 jackpot.

CLARA INVOLVEMENT Clara had some very successful county involvement over the last week. Luke Lawlor played on the Celtic Challenge team that defeated Tipperary while Philip Carrigan was also on the panel. David Barcoe gave a power packed display as Galway minors suffered a heavy defeat to Kilkenny in Nowlan Park on Saturday. Cian Kelly was part of the Kilkenny U19 squad that claimed the inaugural Leinster league title at Dublin’s expense in Nowlan Park on Thursday and Conor Phelan and John Murphy were involved in the Kilkenny senior’s dismantling of Antrim’s challenge on Sunday in the Park.

Lucy Boyd played for the Kilkenny minor camogie team as they lost narrowly to Tipperary in the All Ireland semi final in Rathdowney on Sunday. Well done to all.

O’ LOUGHLIN GAELS JUNIOR TEAMS IN ACTION Last weekend saw a return to action for the O’Loughlin Gaels club’s junior teams. First up was the Junior team which lost out to Windgap in the All County Junior Hurling League on Friday in St.John’s Park. O’Loughlin’s were missing some key players and Windgap seemed well ahead in their preparations for the season.

The Junior E team had a successful start to their competitive season as they defeated Bennettsbridge in the League first round on Saturday evening.

The Junior A team lost out narrowly to a strong St. Patrick’s Ballyragget side by 0-20 to 1-15 at home on Sunday.

COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES O’Loughlin Gaels players featured prominently with Kilkenny

sides over the weekend. Six players were involved at Senior level as Kilkenny defeated Antrim comprehensively in UPMC Nowlan Park in the Leinster Senior Championship. Paddy Deegan captained the team from centre back aided in defence by Mikey Butler and Huw Lawlor while Owen Wall registered an impressive 2-2 when introduced as a substitute. Jordan Molloy and Luke Hogan were also part of the Kilkenny panel on the day.

Conor Holohan started at full forward and scored two points on the Kilkenny minor team which defeated Galway in its first outing in this year’s Leinster minor championship. Also on the Kilkenny panel for the game was Cian Byrne while regular goalkeeper Daniel Mc Cormack missed the game due to injury but will hope to be back for future rounds.

O’Loughlin’s Aoife Shealy was part of the Kilkenny minor camogie panel which lost out to Tipperary in the All Ireland semi-final at Rathdowney on Sunday last.

LOTTO O’Loughlin Gaels Lotto Results There was no winner of club lotto dated April 16th Numbers drawn 2, 14, 19, 28 Bonus 5. Play now at www. oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors draw: 1. John Grant c/o Eamonn Doyle. 2. Seanie Browne c/o D. O’Connell. 3. James Houlihan c/o Gerry Buckley. 4. P/A Cleere c/o Kevin Cleere. 5. Mary Brennan c/o D. O’ Connell. 6. Eileen Larkin c/o Mick Nowlan. 7. PJ Scanlon c/o Neil Loy. 8. Tracey Brannigan c/o Online. 9. Emma Butler c/o Online. 10. Ben Leydon c/o Online Thank you for your continued support NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to pro.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie FRESHFORD CONFIRMATION Congratulations to the boys and girls of 5th and 6th class of St. Lachtain’s National School who received their Confirmation on Saturday last at St. Lachtains Church. The Ceremony was performed by Bishop Niall Cull Bishop of Ossary and the weather was beautiful for the occasion. He complimented the children on the way they were prepared for their special sacrament and paid tribute to their parent and teachers who prepared them physically and religiously for the day.

The following were the recipients of the sacrament: O.Bergin, E .Brennan, Campion, I.Carroll, Condon, O.Crosby, A.Dalton, T.Dalton, L.Dermody, S.Eardley, R.Foley, C.Foley,J.Geraghty, S.Gray, J.Kavanagh, B.Looby, F.Martin,B.McGree, P O’Connor M. O’Neill, S.Walsh, L.McCrthy, Y Zacharchenko, LGrace Boyle, D.Butler, N.Butler, A.Carroll, R.Cullen,E.Deacon, G.Dermody, P.Dunne,M.Flynn, A.Garry, K.Hickey,F.Long,O.Marnell, E.McGree,E.Murphy, C.O’Rourke, E.O’Suillivn,K.Ryan SQUASH Local man Pat Morrissey took part in a squash tournament in Edinburgh at the weekend, Pat was one of team representing Ireland in the Over 40 competition SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Eamon Wall Sart, Freshford and all his family on the death last week of his mother Mrs. Mary Wall late of Great Oak, Callan. Funeral mass took place on Friday morning last in St.Moluas Church Killaloe followed by burial in Kilbride Cemetery.

FUND RAISER The Committee of the loop café have organised a cake sale and Table quiz for next weekend. You are asked to kindly support the cake sale will take place on Saturday morning next at 11 am and bakers and buyers would be most welcome. They hold a table quiz in McGraths pub on Saturday night at 9pm. Tables of 4. All welcome The Café is a wonderful addition to the village full of character and history and your continued support would be greatly appreciated. Why not go along and meet a friend or try some of their lovely food and support a local community café.

They are also looking for volunteers to help out so if you can give little bit of your time please do so.

IONAD LACHTA St St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 am to 4.30pm.

There was an illustrated lecture on beekeeping and honey in Ancient Ireland at the Church on Saturday last given by Archaeologist, Historian Folklorist and Beekeeper Shane Lenane. The event was free and there was a good attendance.

CO-OPERATION THE KEY. Cllr. Michael McCarthy continually emphasises the importance of drainage works prior to resurfacing on the road network across North Kilkenny. Thankfully, all who use the road at Ballyroe, Freshford will see the benefit now that such works have been completed. A full overlay was scheduled for Thursday and Friday 18th and 19th April. Once again credit goes to the Area Engineer and his staff. Co-operation gets positive results.” Said Cllr. McCarthy.

GETTING THE WORK DONE Cllr Michael McCarthy is pleased to note that almost one kilometre on the LP 1003 at Ballyroe, on the Freshford to Tullaroan Road, has benefited from a full Tarmacadam

overlay. “The consistent schedule of preventative maintenance coupled with extensive drainage works which were completed prior to the resurfacing will ensure a safe surface for all road users in the years ahead. Once again great credit is due to our Area Engineer and his outdoor staff for a job well done.” Said Cllr. McCarthy.

NOW THERE IS LIGHT The Clinstown Road is now truly illuminated, says Cllr.

Michael McCarthy. “Four new LED lights are now operational and will hopefully lead to additional safety for residents and road users alike. I wish to convey my gratitude to the Local Engineer and his staff for their efforts, concluded Cllr.

McCarthy.

GAA Spring is in the air and underage training has resumed for all at St. Lachtains under age groups from U6s up to Minors.

Newcomers are welcome at all age groups. Please contact any committee member for details on training sessions and how to register your children. It’s great to see the youngsters running about in the sun again after the recent bad weather.

U15 Feile. The U15 boys had 2 wins and a draw against Cloneen, Thomastown and Erins Own on the opening day on Sunday last. They now progress to the next round. Dates to be confirmed The Junior team beat Dicksboro on a score of 2-19 to 0-15 in the all-county league while the Junior game against Mooncoin was postponed until a later date.

The U16s took on Conahy in league round 2 on Wednesday evening in Pair Lachtain at 18.30. The Junior Fs will play Tullaroan in Tullaroan on Saturday evening next at 19.00.

The Minors take on Lisdowney on Monday evening at 19.00 in Pairc Lachtain BRIDGE Freshford bridge club continues every Monday at 7.30pm in Tulla Hall, Three castles. New members are always very welcome. For further information please contact Olive on 087 9257610.

FOROIGE Foroige held an information evening in the Community Hall recently and are looking for adult volunteers for a Youth club. For more info contact Aidan n 086 0674485 or Aidan. gleeson@foroige.ie PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm and 11am Mass in St. Lachtains Church on Sundays.

The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish Office. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr. Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 2523521 HELP FOR Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed.

For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB DOGGIE NIGHT SUCCESS The Fundraising Committee would like to acknowledge the wonderful turnout of club members, players, parents and friends of the club that contributed to the making of “ We’re Going To The Dogs” evening such a wonderful success on Friday night last at the Kilkenny Greyhound Track. Fortunately, with good weather, the evening provided great entertainment, plenty of banter and competitive dog racing for the attendance and the generous race sponsors.

It was a memorable evening too for the Leahy brothers with Thomas’s dog ‘De Monks Dream’ winning the Fran Grincell 525 race and Murt’s entry ‘Fleadh Saraide’ crossing the line to win the Pat Carroll 525 final. Both winners were greeted with a huge Village cheer of approval. Highlight of the evening was the Leahy family sponsored “The Georgie Leahy Memorial 525 Final which went to the reserve entry

‘Deadly Chaser’. The ticket entry draw prize for a Robot Vacuum System was won by K. Stapleton of Ballingarry GAA Club in Limerick. The winners of the DID Electrical sponsored raffle were Denise Downey, Evan Downey, Joe Murray, Pearl Cleere, Maria Kennedy, Shem O’Donnell, Eve Carroll, Paddy Duggan and John Coonan. A great night was enjoyed by all thanks to the hard work of Richie Manogue’s organising committee.

JUNIOR ALL COUNTY LEAGUE On Saturday afternoon the Junior hurlers got their season off to a positive start with a comfortable 3-19 to 1-09 victory over Mount Leinster Rangers (Borris) in their 1st round league fixture in sunny Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain. Building on the solid foundations of a stone wall defence in which David Hennessy, Adam O’Connor and Ben Lawlor excelled, the free scoring forward line found their range to take a 1-11 to 1-03 lead into the break. Wing forward Oisin Bateman with 1-04 and Shane Guilfoyle’s 0-05, in particular, were a thorn in the Carlow club’s defence throughout the half.

From the early minutes of the 2nd half the ‘Rangers attacked with serious intent scoring three points but responses from Sam McEvoy, James Tyrrell and substitute Liam Rafter soon nullified their gains. In the 15th minute a penalty save by replacement goalkeeper Billy O’Sullivan followed minutes later by a deadly Allen Larkin goal finish confirmed the home team’s superiority. Over the closing ten minutes the youthful Village side added a further 1-04 to consolidate the win for an encouraging start to their 2024 league campaign.

U-12’s TRAVEL TO LIMERICK Juvenile PRO Michael Fogarty reports that the U-12 mentors accepted an invitation from Mungret St. Paul’s club in Limerick to compete in their U-12 hurling tournament on Sunday last. The young Village lads started well beating Sixmilebridge (Clare) in the first round and followed up with a fine victory over the hosts Mungret despite conceding two late goals to the team who beat the club in the 2023 Seamus Fry tournament final. Further victories against Newtownshandrum (Cork) and Michael Cusack’s (Clare) followed before they came unstuck against Newport (Tipp). Finishing the league on 8 points but relegated to 3rd place on scoring difference was a cruel blow for young Village players. Qualifying for the shield final, they put in a great effort but tiredness took its toll missing three goal chances to claim the title.

The second Village team also were out of luck drawing their final game resulting in Sixmilebridge taking the title. For a panel of players who had only one training session due to the weather conditions over the last few weeks it has to be said that the skills put on display by young James Stephens players were hugely impressive over a long day’s hurling. Our thanks to the mentors and parents who travelled with the large squad of players.

LEINSTER MINOR On Saturday afternoon the Kilkenny minor (U-17) team, captained by clubman Bill McDermott, enjoyed an unexpected easy 4-24 to 1-14 victory over Galway in the 1st round of the 2024 Leinster minor championship in a sun drenched UPMC Nowlan Park. The Kilkenny lineup also included club players Larry Phelan at full back and goalkeeper Padraig Joyce with Diarmuid Behan, James Bergin, Conor Heffernan and Conor McEvoy on the extended panel. Leading the forward line Bill McDermott played a captain’s role scoring 2-03 over the hour while netminder Padraig Joyce and full back Larry Phelan were outstanding throughout. Surely stiffer tests lie ahead and who knows the Tribesmen could yet reappear to contest the Leinster final in the months ahead.

PADDY GRACE SHIELD Bidding to retain the Paddy Grace Shield for a third year in a row the James Stephens U-15 hurlers battled to the final whistle but came up short at 2-06 to 3-02 against a strong John Lockes (Callan) team in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain on Sunday morning. Conceding two goals in the first half of a hugely competitive fixture would ultimately lead to the downfall of the home club’s ambitions. This enabled John Lockes to take a 2-01 to 0-01 lead into the break. To their credit the James Stephens players came out for the 2nd half full of determination to turn the tables on their opponents.

Five minutes in a Ruairi Power goal following a solo run from midfield gave hope to the James Stephens players. Minutes later, unlucky not to have hit the net, when another Ruairi Power special rebounded off the goalpost was the break the Village lads badly needed to cut the Callan club’s lead but it was not to be. The closing minutes were full of drama but the John Locke’s lads held firm to hold out for the narrowest of victories. After that disappointment in the follow up “dead rubber” fixture against Carrickshock the fast-tiring James Stephens players, in the heat of the morning sun, struggled to gain the upper hand against the southern club but finished strongly with a run of scores to register 2-04 to 1-02 on the scoreboard and claim a consolation victory.

LEINSTER U-19 LEAGUE FINAL Well done to the five club players, goalkeeper Billy O’Sullivan, backs Noah Manogue and Oisin Bateman as well as centre forward Ed Lauhoff all of whom contributed positively to the Kilkenny U-19 teams comfortable 4-21 to 1-17 victory over Dublin in the newly institutes Leinster Development league final in UPMC Nowlan Park on Thursday evening. Sean Deely was also a member of the panel.

We welcome all GAA Club and Community notes for publication in The Kilkenny Observer email to sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

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Community & GAA Notes SHOP OFFERS The Red and Green shop supervisor Breda Manogue has put together a special offer package costing €58 of a club jersey, shorts and socks for the U-12’ age group. A similar offer is available for U-13’s and small adults at a cost of €65. Contact Breda at 087-9648756 Meanwhile the shop will be open every Tuesday evening from 8 to 9pm. during the playing season.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEERING Kilkenny Volunteering has opportunities open for folk with a number of local organisations and charities seeking help over the next few months. Among the groups seeking help are the Kilkenny Community Early Years Project, the Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership Kilkenny Care Centre -- Befriending and the Kilkenny Men’s Shed. Should anyone be interested in offering help with any of the above organisations contact Kristina (089 2584946) who will provide all the necessary information.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 8, 17, 27, 31. There was no winner.

The €40 consolation winners were Grainne and Noel, P.J. McGrath, Keith Ruth, Helen Larkin and Des McGrath.

GOWRAN CLEERES PUB A bus is leaving from Cleere’s Pub for Punchestown on 30th April at 1.30pm, €30 per person. Ticket included. If you are interested then your leave name with Jim. GOWRAN PARISH Gowran Community Housing for the Elderly are happy to announce the opening of Pre Loved Beautiful Clothes in Dalton House Day Care Centre. Selling high quality clothes for special occasions. Next door to Molly’s Tearoom. Come in and have a browse.

DALTON HOUSE Wednesday Music Night, come along and join in with our local musicians for a sing song every Wednesday night from 8pm to 10pm. Enjoy some light refreshments for only €5pp.

Hope to see you all there!

DANNY DELIGHT DELIVERS SCOTTISH NATIONAL GLORY Congratulations to Danny Mullins who was aboard the Willie Mullins trained MacDermott that won The Scottish Grand National in Ayr on Saturday.

For Willie Mullins, his incredible and phenomenal season continues and MacDermott’s Scottish National victory was part of a 4-timer for The Champion Trainer with Paul Townend riding a treble.

Those exploits have all but secured a First Trainers Championship Cross Channel in an unforgettable season having won The Champion Hurdle, Gold Cup and Grand National along with having his 100th Cheltenham Festival winner.

U-12 HURLING TOURNAMENT All going well, the annual Young Irelands U-12 Tournament will take place in Castle Ellis on Saturday, and this year’s Tournament will honour the memory of Charlie Carter Senior and also John and Kathleen O’Neill.

Eight Teams from across the county will compete with Cup and Shield competitions up for grabs. The Cup competition will honour Charlie Carter Senior who was a long serving Young Irelands stalwart. Charlie gave trojan service to the Club as a player and mentor, and he was always an ever present as a supporter at Young Irelands matches. In 1996, he was a selector on one of the greatest days in Young Irelands history as they won their very first County Senior Championship, while in 1992 he was sub-goalie on The Young Irelands Team that won the Intermediate County Final.

Meanwhile, the 2002 County Senior Final win was very special for Charlie and his wife Stella as their three sons Ollie, Martin and Davy all featured in that famous triumph, while Charlie’s nephews Charlie Junior, Cathal and James also featured in that win as Young Irelands defeated Dunnamaggin. Martin is actually managing The Young Irelands U-12s this year, and Saturday’s tournament will attach extra significance as it will honour his Dad’s memory.

The Shield competition will honour Kathleen and John O’Neill who were staunch hurling followers, and they were often went to Young Irelands and Kilkenny matches especially when their son Pat was playing. Kathleen was from Dunnamaggin originally and they defeated Young Irelands in The County Final in 1997 with Pat playing for The Gowran men, while her brother Tommy Brennan was a highly successful showjumper and eventer who acheived International success and he was part of The Ireland Team that won The Gold Medal at The Eventing World Championships in Burghley in 1966.

YOUNG IRELANDS HEALTHY CLUB There was a huge turnout in Young Irelands GAA grounds last Monday night as The Healthy Club began their All Stars Inclusive evening. It was a most enjoyable evening with so many participants, and it has got a hugely positive response across the county.

The All-Stars group meet-up every Monday from 6.30pm and all are most welcome.

MICHAEL CAREY Michael Carey was on The Kilkenny Team that easily won 5-30 to 0-13 against Antrim in their opening game of The Leinster Championship in Nowlan Park on Sunday. Kilkenny now turn their attention to Galway next Sunday in Salthill.

ED MCDERMOTT Ed McDermott is Captain of The Kilkenny Minors this year,

and on Saturday in Nowlan Park they got their Leinster Minor Championship campaign off to the best start possible following an emphatic 4-24 to 1-14 win against Galway.

FEILE HURLING Well done to The Young Irelands U-15 Feile hurlers who won both of their matches in Gowran on Sunday having won 1-8 to 0-9 against Mullinvat, before winning 1-8 to 2-2 against Kilmacow.

PRIMARY SCHOOL BOYS RECORD BRACE OF EMPHATIC VICTORIES Gowran Primary School Boys have had a magnificent season so far as they defended their Country Cup Football title, while they just came up short by a solitary point after a replay in The Roinn A Championship that would have given them back to back Country Cup and Championship titles.

The Schools Hurling season is underway now, and hopes are high that the boys can do very well this year having reached both The Country Cup and Championship Roinn A Finals last year. They have most certainly started the season perfectly well with two emphatic victories in both competitions.

In their first game of the Championship, they defeated St. Canices 4-7 to 1-5 away from home, while in the first round of The Country Cup they put 8 goals past Piltown in an 8-6 to 2-6. Best Wishes to the boys in the next few months as they attempt to bring further silverware back to the school.

YOUNG IRELANDS JUNIOR HURLING The Young Irelands Junior A Hurling Team got their season off to a winning start with a 3-20 to 3-14 win against Dicksboro but lost 1-17 to 0-15 away to Dunnamaggin on Sunday.

Meanwhile, The Young Irelands Junior F Team lost their opening game of the season as they lost 0-21 to 2-9 against Tullogher-Rosbercon in Gowran on Saturday Evening.

YOUNG IRELANDS MINOR HURLING The Young Irelands A Minor Team under new manager Gary Farrell lost their opening game of the season as they were defeated 2-16 to 0-17 away to Erins Own of Castlecomer.

Meanwhile, The Young Irelands B Minor Team made an excellent start to the season as they defeated John Lockes of Callan 3-16 to 0-9 in John Locke Park, Callan.

Both Minor Teams are in action during the week in Gowran, with The A Team hosting St. Martins, while the B Team are at home to Slieverue.

U-14 GAELIC FOOTBALL The Young Irelands U-14 Gaelic Football Team reached the Semi-Final of The Roinn A Championship following a 3-4 to 3-3 win against Barrow Rangers in their quarter-final match.

Unfortunately, they suffered a heavy defeat in the Semi-Final losing 4-12 to 0-4 away to Danesfort.

MARTIN MURPHY Martin Murphy who captained Young Irelands to win The Junior County Final in 1964 passed away last week. Martin was captain of a star studded team that won 9-7 to 1-3 against Thomastown Rangers.

Young Irelands formed a guard of honour ahead of funeral mass in Dungarvan.

YOUNG IRELANDS FUNDRAISING Young Irelands will be busy with fundraising events throughout the Summer.

The annual Dog Night will take place on Sunday Evening 27th of May at Kilkenny Greyhound Track in James Park, while The Kilkenny Country Music Festival will return to Gowran Park on Sunday July 7th.

Meanwhile, the annual Young Irelands Golf Classic is also scheduled to take place the first weekend in June 7th/8th.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH GRAIG NOTES If you wish to submit news items, club events, announcements etc., you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@ outlook.com. Deadline is Saturday 6pm.

LOTTO, GAA AND SOCCER Numbers drawn on 15/04 /24 were 15, 11, 22, 25, there was no winner. The following won €30 each, Christine Holden , Lynn Doherty, Daisy, Libby, and Freddie, Sinead Jackson, Aisling Dawson. Tickets are available from any club member.

THE GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW Winners for Draw on April 18/04 2024, were First Prize €480.

Elaine and Susan, 2nd Prize €50 Paula Mahon. 3rd Prize, €25 M. Maher. Draw takes place at 4pm on Thursdays.

RAMBLING HOUSE The Monthly Rambling House Session is on the second Friday of the month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also many from the surrounding district’s also join in. The next Session is on Friday May 10th. At 8.00pm.

Bridge Yellow won against Freebooters Athletic in the Under-12 League Division 1 (with Jayden Halligan and Ollie Maher as scorers).

CHURCH SERVICES Masses will be celebrated in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday as well as in Paulstown at 11.30am. Weekday mass is at 10am in Paulstown this Friday and the following Tuesday and in Goresbridge on Wednesday.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in Paulstown every Tuesday after morning mass and lasts until 6pm.

CUPLA FOCAL Weekly Friday chatting in Irish continues over a cuppa in the Goodly Barrow on Fridays at 11am. Further info from Ann tel.

085-7529485.

FLEADH CHEOIL A fleadh cheoil will take place in Paulstown Community Hall on Saturday April 27 from 9pm. The Rise the Dust band will play. Entry is €1.

TOWN TEAMS Following a recent public meeting it is intended to proceed with the establishment of a Goresbridge Town Teams. Subcommittees with areas of special interest will be formed in advance and these will elect representatives to the Team.

YOUTH GROUP (OSSORY YOUTH) This caters for first to third years. The Group meets on in the Goresbridge Health Centre every Wednesday from 2.30-4pm.

For information contact Ruth Flanagan tel. 087-3873724 MR PRENDERGAST RIP The death has occurred of Edward Prendergast on Tuesday, 16th April, 2024. Predeceased by his father, Robert. Deeply regretted by his mother Margaret, sisters Cathy and Mary, brother-in-law Conor Barry, his aunts, uncles, cousins and a wide circle of friends near and far.

PAULSTOWN MASTERPLAN The plan may be consulted online or at specific locations.

See Kilkenny County Council website. Submissions may be made up to May 3rd.

BENNETTSBRIDGE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE PLAN At the April Municipal District meeting councillors were presented with the feasibility study and design options report for a Bennettsbridge Riverside Amenity Area and Pedestrian Bridge. It is early days of course but it is encouraging that a roadmap is now in place. Funding streams to advance planning, detail, design and land acquisition will have to be identified and will be a challenge.

The idea of a pedestrian bridge has long been sought in Bennettsbridge and it’s good to see some progress. Bennettsbridge is lucky to have local councillors, Deirdre Cullen and Patrick O’Neill working towards this improved river access in our village. We need this for safe pedestrian access between both sides of the village and to improve and enhance our river amenity.

FIRST COMMUNION MASSES Preparation Masses for children who will make their First Communion in May will continue next Sunday with the second of three masses. Parents and children will be involved in the Liturgy. Thanks to parents who are assisting Fr. Pat with the masses.

LOTTO Results 15th April. No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 2, 10, 14, 15.

Consolation Prizes, Eamon McEvoy, Gowran Road, Ava Dollard, Kilfane, Pat O’Neill, Ballyreddin, Ann Holden, Castlegarden, BB Syndicate.

MENS SHED Meetings continue on Wednesdays at usual time. All welcome to come along, plenty of activities, darts, rings, cards, pool, chat and tea. The exercise programme is a great hit with all age groups.

ART GROUP The Bennettsbridge Art Group will commence a six week art session on Tuesday next sponsored by the KCETB, Carlow

Kilkenny Educational Training Board. The group is currently working towards mounting their Annual Exhibition during Kilkenny Arts Week. This sponsorship will be of immense help to the group and members are most appreciative of the support.

GOWRAN PRE-LOVED CLOTHES Gowran Community Council for the Elderly Association had a very successful opening of their new venture, selling pre-loved beautiful clothes on Friday evening. The shop selling branded clothes will be open each Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Thanks to all who gave in their pre-loved clothes for sale with an agreed percentage going to the Houses for the Elderly Funds.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE The Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is looking for volunteer in a wide range of activities. Some are listed here, Castlecomer Development Association is looking for a Website Volunteer Kilkenny Community Early Years Project CLG - Kilkenny Community Early Years Project CLG is looking to recruit several skilled members Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership is organising an Inclusive Summer Programme for children with special needs. The camps will take place across July with training in June. KRSP is looking for adult and junior volunteers to support their Inclusive Summer programme. Must be over 18.

Archersrath Nursing Home is offering several volunteer opportunities, Befriender, Artist Painter and Beauty Basics and Nail Painting with Elderly Residents Kilkenny Care Centre – Befriending. Would like their volunteers to come in and engage in uplifting chats with their residents, share stories, laughter and companionship.

Kilkenny Men’s Shed - Men’s Shed Woodwork Tutor Volunteer. Kilkenny Men’s Shed provides facilities for men to come together to share skills and experience in a friendly, social and supportive environment.

Oxfam is looking for a motivated team player who would help throughout the shop floor and train on the digital till.

Also, create attractive displays in the shop, receive and help to sort and price donated clothes and books.

AKA Fringe Festival will take place from 8th - 18th August with over 90 exhibitions and events happening around Kilkenny city and county. They are looking for Committee Members to join the team this year. A Volunteer experienced in Administration and a Volunteer with Marketing and Communications experience is needed.

For more information on any of the above, Contact www. volunteerkilkenny.ie or call 089 2584946.

CAMOGIE U14S Bennettsbridge Under 14s had a good win last week over O’Loughlin’s on the scoreline of Bennettsbridge 6-5, O’Loughlins 3-10. Well done to mentors and team.

LEINSTER CHAMPIONSHIP Well done to David Blanchfield who played a fine game at half back in Kilkennys win over Antrim in the Leinster Championship. Best wishes for the game away to Galway next weekend.

FEILE 2024 Pride of place goes to our Camogie team who were crowned Kilkenny Roinn A Feile Champions 2024 in Gowran last Sunday. The girls defeated Gowran and Dicksboro in the group to qualify for the final against a strong Carrickshock team . After a huge battle the ‘Bridge girls won out by a goal and will now represent Kilkenny in the Féile in Wexford in June. Well done to all involved in a great win.

Our under 15 boys with a very young team lost out narrowly to The Rower and Fenians/ Ballyragget in their two games and so did not qualify from the group but showed plenty of skill and heart on the day.

UNDER 14 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Our under 14 team produced a great performance to defeat Erin’s Own in the semi-final of under 14 B championship last weekend . Well done to all on qualifying for the final with opposition and venue to be determined.

CLUB GAMES Our junior B team received a walkover from Emeralds in

Bennettsbridge Camogie U14s score a good win over O’Loughlin’s

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

Tom Healy

BADMINTON Badminton in Paulstown Community Hall at 8pm every Monday. Entry is €5. New players welcome. Further info from Tommy, Tel. 087-2303495 BOXING (PAULSTOWN) Congratulations and well done to our three girl firsts today, Annalise, Mary and Lucy who boxed in the Sacre Coeur tournament.

BRIDGE UNITED

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

Community & GAA Notes

Medal Presentation in Bennettsbridge

round one of the league while our junior E team lost out to O’Loughlin’s. Our minors defeated Tullaroan while our under 15 team defeated Galmoy / Windgap in their opening rounds. Please see the Kilkenny Gaa website for upcoming fixtures or fixture changes.

NIGHT AT THE DOGS 2024 Bennettsbridge Gaa, Camogie and Bórd na Nóg clubs are combining to host a night at the dogs on Friday May 10th at Kilkenny Dog Track. Tickets are available from any committee member of any of the three clubs. Monster raffle and great racing on the night. Tickets cost ten euro with kids going free. Hope to see a great crowd there for what is always a great night.

PRESENTATION NIGHT A great night was had by all at our presentation night in the Pembroke Hotel last Friday evening. Thanks to the Pembroke Hotel for the great service provided. A special presentation was made to Zara Khodabasch winner of the senior world Irish dancing championship in Killarney in early April which was a fantastic achievement.

CLUB SPOT The club has adopted a new app for all Gaa business going forward, replacing clubforce. We ask as many people as possible to download this new club spot app. Details are on the club’s Facebook page. This is a great way to communicate club business. Membership, split the pot etc and all club business can be done on this so it is vital for as many as possible to download the app.

MEMBERSHIP 2024 This year’s membership can now be paid to registrar Samantha McGarry or to any club committee member.

Membership fees are the same as last year. Forty euro for non-playing members, eighty euro for student players and 120 euro for adult players. Early payment would be most appreciated. Membership can also be paid on the new club spot app. Please see the clubs Facebook and twitter pages for details.

SPLIT THE POT The next draw takes place this Friday in the clubhouse.

Thanks to all for the continued support.

CLUB SHOP New items of club gear have been added to the online shop.

Simply put Bennettsbridge in the search box on the O’Neill’s website to see all the gear.

DICKSBORO

Zahra Khodabasch, Irish World Dancing Champion honoured by Bennettsbridge Hurling Club

Bennettsbridge 2024, Division A Féile Champions,Captain Erin Morrissey, being presented with the cup

by County Chairperson, Teresa Aylward

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 18th April 2024. Nos: 1 3 17 31, Jackpot not won Draw Prizes, €50: Fiona Murphy, c/o Jim Murphy. €25 each Anne Kerwick c/o Anne Kerwick. €25 each Derek Delaney c/o Dicksboro. €25 each Andria Fitzpatrick c/o Online Hurlers Co Op Siobhan O’Gorman c/o Online. Promotors prize Jimmy Murphy We encourage all Dicksboro Families to sign up & play weekly for €2 per draw and we thank everyone who is currently doing so.

JOIN OUR CLUB The new Hurling, Camogie and Gaelic Football season is fast approaching and since March our Hurling and Camogie Nursey and underage teams are be back in the thick of it in Palmerstown and James Park. For more information contact any member of our Committee or See our ClubZap for more details.

SUMMER CAMP 2024 Save the Dates. Our fantastic Summer Camp will be back again and we can’t wait. Two fun weeks packed with activities for all to enjoy.

Monday July 15th to Friday July 19th, and Monday Aug 12th to Friday Aug 16th FEILE NA GAEL Unfortunately both our teams did not progress to the Feile Nationals for 2024 but huge effort and determination was put in by both our teams. The boys u15 were unlucky Sunday morning in Paulstown where they drew their first match against Barrow Rangers and won their 2nd against Ballyhale Shamrocks. But in the end it came down to scoring difference which saw Barrow Rangers progress out of their Group.

We wish Sean Norton a speedy recovery as he got a nasty shoulder injury in the 2nd game and we hope that he’s back in action soon.

The girls had a tough afternoon in sunny Gowran where they came up against 2 good teams in Bennetsbridge and Young Irelands. A great bunch of girls who gave their all and we will see them back in action for Championship. Well done to all the players and Management involved on the day.

CLUB FOOTBALL Best of luck to our Senior Footballers and Management who will play Mullinavat in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Co Semi Final Saturday 27th April at 5pm. TBC KILKENNY HURLING Huge Congratulations to our Boro lads Anthony Clifford, Oisin Henderson, Patrick Lacey, Louis Raggett, Bill O’Shea and Donnchadh Hennessy who had an impressive win with Kilkenny against Galway Saturday afternoon in UPMC Nowlan Park Well done to our Senior Hurlers involved with Kilkenny who also had a fine win against Antrim Sunday afternoon in UPMC Nowlan Park in the first round of the Championship.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE The Kilkenny Minor A Team unfortunately lost their All Ireland Semi Final in extra time against Tipperary. Well done

to our Club Girls Angela Carroll and Aisling Browne for their dedication and efforts with this Kilkenny Team.

The Kilkenny u17 Development Team lost their All Ireland by a point to Galway. But well done to Boro ladies Kate Dowling, Cara Duggan and Aoibhin Deegan for their involvement. We are very proud to see our Club girls line out in the Black and Amber and we look forward to seeing all the girls back in Palmerstown for club games.

JOHNSTOWN URLINGFORD LIBRARY Flower arranging class with Eva Holmes for Bealtaine on Wednesday. May 1st from 2.30 to 4.30pm.

Chair based yoga class on Wednesday May 8th from 2 to 3pm.

Spring into storytime for children under 8 on Friday April 26th at 11am, all are welcome. Gardening for biodiversity with Monica Fleming on Thursday May 16th at 11am. This is a talk for an hour on ideas, tips and simple action to make your garden more friendly for biodiversity and pollinators.

Plenty of variety for everyone!

HERITAGE GROUP The Heritage Group have organised a bus trip to Foynes Flying Boat Museum and Maureen O’Hara Museum on Thursday July 4th. The cost will be €60 which will include the coach, tea/coffee and scone at Adare Heritage Centre, entrance to the Museum and evening meal in the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh. Enquiries to 0863272288.

CROSSPATRICK TRACTOR RUN A tractor run is being organized in aid of St. James’Hospital will take place on Sunday May 5th. Registration at 12.30pm sharp (€20), leaving the village at 1.30 sharp. BBQ, Raffle and Music. Contact Larry Whyte on 0862658151 or Declan Carroll 0n 0879561520.

FENIANS....

Bingo and Split the pot each Wednesday night.

Congrats to young Fenians Rory Garrett (Capt) and Jerry Henderson , members of the U19 Development squad ,who had a great win in the League Final over Dublin.

SPA UNITED AFC Results U16 boys league division 1A Spa 3 Freebooters 1, U16 boys shield Deen Celtic 3 Spa 1, U15 girls league division 1 Spa 1 Stoneyford 1, U14 girls league division 1 Deen Celtic 0 Spa 1, U13 girls league division 1 Freebooters 4 Spa 0, U12 girls league division 1 Spa 2 Lions 0, U11 girls cup Spa 0 Evergreen 4, U12 boys league division 1A Spa black 2 Callan 1, U12 boys plate Spa green 2 Freebooters 2, freebooters won on penalties 2-0, U11 boys plate Spa 5 Southend 2, U11 boys bowl Lions 5 Spa 1. Also in action in a busy week the U9’s hosted Callan with some great skills on show from both teams.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO...

This weeks winning numbers are 3, 6, 26, and 28. four lucky dips Fenians, Finn Alley, Billy and Jennifer Dermody and Hailey Ryan.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm MASS TIMES Parish Pastoral Combination Weekend Mass Times - St. Patrick and Oliver Church Glengoole - Saturday 6pm, Sacred Heart Church Gortnahoe - Sunday 10.30am. Cathedral of the Assumption Thurles - Saturday 7pm, Sunday 9am and 11am.

St Josephs and St. Brigid, Bohernanave - Sunday 10am and 7pm, St. Peter in Chains Church Moycarkey - Saturday 6.30pm, St. James Church Two Mile Borris - Sunday 10.30am and Our Lady, St. Kevins Church Littleton - Sunday 12 noon, St. Marys Church Moyne - Saturday 7.30pm, Sacred Heart Church Templetuohy - Sunday 11am GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY Last Sunday was Good Shepherd Sunday and it was a day of prayer for Vocations to Priesthood and Religious life. Leaflets were left in the church and anyone interested in having a chat or would like to find out more information, please contact Fr. Joe Walsh of the Thurles parish.

DAY OF REFLECTION A day of reflection for Parish Pastoral Teams and other interested parties at Cabragh Wetlands, Thurles in association with the Archdiocede of Cashel and Emly takes place next Saturday 27th April beginning at 10am. Booking is essential by contacting Mairead Ryan at 086 2122456.

COLLECTIONS Please return your Trocaire box/envelope as soon as possible to the Church or Parochial House so that all monies received can be passed on. Many thanks for your generous contributions to date.

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES The annual pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from June 14th to 20th. Any enquiries please contact Fr Walton or any member of the Parish pastoral group.

COOKERY AND NUTRITION CLASS Classes will take place in Ballynonty Community House for 6 Tuesdays from 16th April to 21st May, 10.30am - 12am.

Classes given by Eileen Bowden. For further information please contact Rena O’Connor on 086 8490843.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106 GORTNAHOE BINGO

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Community & GAA Notes Bingo continues this Saturday evening at the earlier time of 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to the last weekend’s winner of Split the Pot draw, Mags Mullally, Grange, who won €413. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets; you can also Revolute to 0876777220. For the month of April Split the Pot will be in support of the Grange Badminton Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

RUBBISH COLLECTION It was great to see individuals and groups picking up rubbish on the side of the road throughout our parish over the last few weeks. The tidy towns inspections are taking place at the moment and it is hoped that groups in every village work together to impress the judges. It would be great if people would volunteer to pick up rubbish in their own area to keep our parish tidy. We would appeal to motorists to refrain from throwing litter out of cars as plastic items, etc can be harmful to the enviroment and does nothing for the beauty of our countryside. It is also noted that cans and plastic bottles are now recycled in all shops and credit is given for each item returned.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL TIDY TOWNS Plant sale and coffee morning taking place in the Canon Malone Hall on Sunday 26th May, 10-30 to 12-30. If anyone has any plants they are dividing or an overflow of seedlings all donations would be greatly appreciated. All proceeds to the tidy towns.

CARD DRIVE Charity 25 Card Drive in Ballyouskill Community Hall on April 26 @8pm sharp. All are welcome. All proceeds on the night will go to the African missions.

Following a packed house at the Cave Bar for lecture one, the second in a series of talks will be presented at The Community Hall, Castlecomer on Tuesday 30th April at 8pm

by Donie Butler, Kilkenny Railway Historian in conjunction with Fassadinin Historical Society.

The principal focus in this second lecture will be the Railway to Castlecomer and terminus at The Deer Park Mining complex. The line opened in 1919 with the first passenger service commencing from Castlecomer to Kilkenny on 21st February 1921. The catalyst for the opening of this branch line off the main Kilkenny to Maryborough (Portlaoise) line was the coal mines at Deer Park Colliery and the Leinster Coalfield in general. Captain RH Prior-Wandesforde of Castlecomer House was the main promoter of the building of the railway line as he had been lobbying the government for the line to be built over a 25 year period.

The Wandesforde’s had arrived from Kirklington in Yorkshire, England in the 17th century as part of the Cromwellian settlement of Ireland. Anglo-Norman settlers of the 12th century lost their lands and the phrase ‘To hell or to Connaught’ was coined. The Wandesforde’s got involved in mining for Iron-Ore and discovered coal by accident. From then on they concentrated on mining the coal. Castlecomer and the area generally became known as a mining district.

Mr W T Cosgrave MP for North Kilkenny and later to become President of the Executive Council of the Irish Free State and father of the future Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave, played a pivotal role in enabling the funding of the line through securing a British War Office grant. British engineering was in dire need of fuel to aid its industry to support the War effort and rebuild the country following World War I. Wandesforde also invested heavily both financially and in effort in securing the railway branch line from Dunmore West to Deer Pak. There were a total of eight level crossings on the Branch line between Dunmore West and Deer Park. Much of the heritage of the line will be highlighted during the talk.

Donie Butler will talk you through the specific route listing all the level crossings, known gatekeepers heritage landmarks still surviving along the way. Some rare or possibly even unseen before photographs will be included in the presentation. There is much more too including a potted history on the railway in Kilkenny Ireland. So go along to Castlecomer Community Hall on Tuesday 30th April at 8pm and see for yourself. Admission is free. A friendly ‘cuppa’ and a chat awaits you after the talk.

Lecture 3 at Ballyragget will focus on the mainline to Maryborough (Portlaoise) via Ballyragget and Attanagh.

Further Information: Donie Butler danielbutler1948@gmail. com Tel:087-315 6359.

ST PATRICKS GAA – Under 15’s took part in the Feile on a sunny Sunday morning the combined Fenians St Patricks team lost their first group match to the Rower Inistigoe by 2-6 to 0-4 but had a 1-11 to 1-6 win in their second match. Local participants Adam Staunton, Adam Hogan, Niall Foley, Eoin Healy, Jack Diver, Adrian Biletsky, Noah O Shea, Billy Heffernan, Julian Biletsky, Billy Kennedy, and Conor Holohan.

The Junior A side were in action against O’ Loughlins on Sunday also they trailed at half time but were ahead at the final whistle on a scoreline of St Paricks 0-20 O Loughlin Gaels 1-15 Team Billy Morrissey, Donal Brennan, Paddy McEvoy, Kian Drennan, Mark Bergin, Robbie Healy, Chris Delaney, Michael Brennan, Paul Ryan, Christian Connick, Shane Culleton, Sean Brennan, Dillion Lawless, Geoff Morrissey, David Kelly. They will next play Dunnamaggin on May 7th at home. The Junior side will play Galmoy at home

at 7pm.

Works on the pitch - The ball wall is being painted this week with the assistance of club volunteers, it will be undercoated first and then targets will be painted on it next. Many thanks to all for their help and anyone with an artisitc flare willing to help please contact Tomas Healy.

EPILEPSY IRELAND Many thanks also to all who supported the recent church gate collection for Epilepsy Ireland.

MASS TIMES Masses this week Wednesday to Friday morning 10am in St Patrick’s Church Ballyragget and Saturday evening 6.30pm Ballyouskill and 10am Sunday Morning in St Patricks Church Ballyragget.

The First Communion for 2024 is May 11th. The Cemetery mass in St Finans Cemetery will be on Monday June 24th, Donaghmore July 29th.

CONAHY HURLING AND FOOTBALL The junior B hurlers began their league campaign on Sunday afternoon last with a narrow defeat to James Stephens in Jenkinstown. The city side emerged victorious in the end on a 2-14 to 1-15 score line.

TEAM: Padraic Delaney, Conor Duggan, Padraig Gunner, Donal Cass, Frank Gunner, Darren Cuddihy, J.P. Gamble, Darragh Hennessy, Eoin Carroll, Rob Ring, Jack Murphy, Darragh Dooley, Jake Dooley, Mark Gunner, Billy Mulhall.

Subs.: Kieran Brennan, Oisin O’Connor, Paddy Mullan, Oisin Cahill.

The intermediate hurlers will begin their competitive season with a visit to Shamrocks Ballyhale in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Senior/Intermediate League on Friday at 7.00 p.m.

The intermediate footballers are also in action when they face Barrow Rangers in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons County semi-final in Paulstown on Saturday at 4.00 p.m.

The minor hurlers were victorious in their first league outing of 2024 when they defeated O’Loughlin Gaels in Jenkinstown on Tuesday night last. Some good performances throughout the field saw Conahy emerge winners by 4-13 to 0-10.

TEAM: Tommy Mulhall, Tadhg Hennessy, Conor Hennessy, Ben Duggan, Rory Rhatigan, John Kennedy, Patrick Kennedy, Darragh Horgan, Andrew O’Connor, Evan Staunton, Eoin Dunne, Jack Rhatigan, Finn Sherman, Daniel Mooney, Jack Dooley, James O’Neill, Harry Lawlor, Michael Lawler, Adam Morrissey, Brian Phelan.

CAMOGIE The intermediate camogie girls played out an exciting draw with Mullinavat on Sunday morning in the All-County League, while the junior girls enjoyed a great win over St. Brigid’s in Kilmanagh on Friday night.

Katie Brennan also represented the club on the Kilkenny minor team who were narrowly defeated by Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi-final on Sunday. Siofraidh Kennedy was also part of the Kilkenny Under-17 squad who were beaten by Galway in the All-Ireland Final on Sunday.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Club Lotto were 16, 23 and 42. Phil Downey was the winner of the €2,600 jackpot, huge congratulations. The promoter prize winners were Toddy Lacey, David Maher and Larry Bergin. This week’s jackpot now returns to €1,000.

KILMANAGH JIM CULLINAN The death of Jim Cullinan, Ballycallan has caused sadness not alone in our parish community but far beyond its environs. He was born in Freshford where he spent his childhood and youth. Jim was principal of Galmoy National School for many years where undoubtedly he brought his students to their full potential and extolled in them the fruits pertaining to a fulfilled and successful life. An outstanding organist, Jim was the spinal cord of St. Brigid’s Church, Ballycallan choir. His expertise at organising and directing the hymns and music for the various celebrations which took place in St. Brigid’s Church greatly enhanced the solemnity of the occasions. Jim was a faithful and loyal member of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association and was chairperson of our parish branch. In later years, when an organisation named Active Retirement Ireland was formed in Ballycallan, Jim became an active member. He was loyal to his church and to his faith. He always made sure “The Irish Catholic” was delivered to his house every week. The week would not be the same if Jim did not get his ever welcome newspaper.

A large congregation filled St. Brigid’s Church, Ballycallan for the celebration of his requiem mass. The celebrant was Fr. Liam Taylor, P.P. His co-celebrant was Fr. Brian Whelan (a family friend). His burial took place in St. Mary’s cemetery Ballykeeffe. Sympathy is expressed to his wife Teresa, daughters Carmel, Áine and Mary, sons Tom, Cormac, Brendan, James and Paul, sister Joan, brothers, immediate relatives and many friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

CEMETERY MASS The annual cemetery Mass will take place on Sunday, 26th May at 7pm in Ballykeeffe.

CONFIRMATION Bishop Niall Coll will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with the children from our school on Thursday, 16th May at 11am in Ballycallan. A Ceremony of Light for the candidates will take place on Wednesday, 1st May at 7pm in Kilmanagh. All are welcome to attend.

TRÓCAIRE

€644 was raised for Trócaire in the parish. Thank you to those who contributed.

NEW SIGNS IN KILMANAGH We have assigned three spaces in Kilmanagh Carpark for reduced mobility parishioners. Please make these available where possible to assisted users.

PARISH LOTTO Results for 15/04/24. Numbers drawn were 1; 3; 10; 17. There was no winner. Lucky Dip Winners of €50 each were Shane and Jen Murphy; Declan Manogue and Geraldine Doran.

Sellers prizes went to Mark Hogan and Siobhan O’Brien ALL IRELAND ROSARY RALLY The All Ireland Rosary Rally is back this year on Saturday, June 1st in Knock. The day begins with a Marian Conference at 9.30 am in St John’s Centre. Speakers include Fr Michael Donnelly, Sr Ana Margarita Lanzas SCTJM, and Fr Joseph Maria Deane CFR. There will be an opportunity to meet over 20 apostolates from around Ireland from 11:30 am in St John’s Centre. A well-renowned speaker from Miami called Mother Adela Galindo will deliver the keynote Rosary talk at 1 pm in the Basilica. Then there will be the Stations of the Cross outside at 2 pm, followed by the Rosary Procession.

Bishop Phonsie Cullinan will be the Main Celebrant of the 3 pm Concelebrated Mass which will include Anointing of the Sick. Confessions are available throughout the day, and there will be rosary and scapular-making workshops in the marquee. For more information and to see a list of buses going from around Ireland please visitwww.AllIrelandRosaryRally.com VOLUNTEERING Castlecomer Development Association is looking for a Website Volunteer who is proficient in updating a WordPress website with the latest events and activities and email enquiries. This opportunity is mostly remote and requires an intermediate English language. Induction will be provided.

Kilkenny Community Early Years Project CLG - Kilkenny Community Early Years Project CLG is looking to recruit several skilled Board Members/Trustees with Financial, Legal or Human Resources Experience with general Charity Trustees responsibilities to comply with their charity’s governing document.

Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership is organising an Inclusive Summer Programme for children with special needs. The camps will take place across July with training in June. KRSP is looking for ADULT& JUNIOR volunteers to support their Inclusive Summer programme. Must be over 18.

Archersrath Nursing Home is offering several volunteer opportunities; Befriender, Artist Painter and Beauty Basics & Nail Painting with Elderly Residents. Volunteers needed for engaging visitations to enhance the quality of life for their older residents.

Kilkenny Care Centre – Befriending would like their volunteers to come in and engage in uplifting chats with their residents, share stories, laughter and companionship and also make a positive impact on their well-being by providing them with a sense of friendship. For one hour a week.

Kilkenny Men’s Shed - Men’s Shed Woodwork Tutor Volunteer. Kilkenny Men’s Shed provides facilities for men to come together to share skills and experience in a friendly, social and supportive environment. This volunteer opportunity is once a week for about 3 hours and materials will be provided.

Oxfam is looking for a motivated team player who would help throughout the shop floor and train on the digital till.

Also, create attractive displays in the shop, receive and help to sort and price donated clothes, books etc. and store them safely. Be available on Monday, Wednesday and/or Sunday between 12:00 - 17:00.

AKA Fringe Festival will take place from 8th - 18th August with over 90 exhibitions and events happening around Kilkenny city and county. They are looking for Committee Members to join the team this year. A Volunteer experienced in Administration and a Volunteer with Marketing and Communications experience is needed.

If you are an organization in need of volunteers, please get in touch to see how we can support you too. For more information please contact us on www.volunteerkilkenny.ie or call 089 2584946.

NATIONAL PILGRIMAGE FOR LIFE The first National Pilgrimage for Life, organised by the Council for Life of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, will be celebrated on Saturday 4th May in Knock Shrine. The pilgrimage begins with Anointing of the Sick in the Basilica at 2.30pm, followed by Mass at 3pm and Rosary Procession after Mass, weather permitting. Main celebrant and homilist will be Archbishop Francis Duffy. We invite you to join us in Knock to celebrate the gift of life and to pray for the protection of all human life.

KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail. com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES Hugginstown, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil – Saturday 27th. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 28th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Wednesday 24th. At 7.00p.m.

Vigil - Saturday 27th. at 6.30p.m.

ANNIVERSARY MASSES Seamus Connolly, Stonecarthy: Mass in Stoneyford Church

on Saturday 27th. April at 6.30.00p.m.

Paddy Farrell, Kyleva. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 27th. April at 8.00p.m.

Joan and Helen Foran, Monroe Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 28th. April at 10.00a.m.

ROTA Rota for next week-end: 27th. and 28th. April 2024. (Fifth Sunday of Easter) Readers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Tony Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Deirdre Rohan, Sunday 10.00a.m.

Noreen Kenneally Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Kitty Wallace. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cahill; Sunday 10.00a.m Ann Power DATES TO REMEMBER FOR 2024: First Holy Communion. For Stoneyford School on Sunday 12th. May at 11.00a.m. in Stoneyford Church. For Monroe/ Newmarket Schools on Sunday 19th. May at 11.00a.m. in Hugginstown Church.

STONEYFORD TIDY TOWNS The first village “clean-up” was last Saturday and had a great turn out. Even the huge deluge after an hour didn’t put people off and was a good time to grab a cuppa and bun to refuel! Several mini-projects have kicked off and all are ongoing. The next general community clean-up is on May 11th. ahead of First Holy Communion and the 5k and 10k Challenge on May 19th. Keep an eye on Stoneyford Development Association on Facebook or contact Helen Finnegan for your name to be added to the WhatsApp group if you would like to get involved.

CONVERSATIONS WITH WOMEN IN THE BIBLE This Conference will be on 11th. May 2024 in The Pembroke Hotel, Patrick Street, Kilkenny from 10.00a.m. to 4.30p.m.

The speaker will be Thérèse Fitzgerald. Booking essential: Contact Sara or Catherina at 056 772 2870 between 9.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. on Monday to Friday or e-mail regionaloffice@ ssjg.ie before May 7th.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY LECTURE A Lecture on “Kilkenny’s Titanic Survivor” will be given by MaryAnn Vaughan on Friday, 26th. April at 8.00p.m, in Mullinavat Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church) SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

THE KILKENNY PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE Pilgrimage will be held from Wednesday 1st. to 8th May. The hotel will be based near to the Church and the group will be travelling with Marian Pilgrimages. The cost includes Insurance. Contact Ann on: 086 199 1620 or 086 882 5622.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock GAA. draw Monday 15th.

April. Numbers: 01; 15; 02; 29. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners, Patrice and Christine Power; Anne, Stephine and Suzanne Power, Lawcus; Claire Ivors, Ballingarry, Shay Hoyne, Hugginstown, Kathleen Moran, Cherrymount.

3 x €15.00 (Sellers), Tommy Hoyne, Tommy Murphy, Padraig Crowley.

STONEYFORD 5K AND 10K: The very successful 5k and 10k event returns to Stoneyford on Sunday May 19th. If you would like to take part, or want more information on the event, or on training for either distance, check out Stoneyford 10k Challenge on Facebook, or Stoney10k on Instagram.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE ST KIERAN’S HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY Applications are invited for the Vacant Tenancy of a onebedroom house at St Kieran’s Place, Urlingford. To be eligible to apply you must be on the Kilkenny County Council Housing list. Applications are available from the Centre.

LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME L.T.I. Names been taken for L.T.I. Q.Q.I. Level 4 due to start soon.

COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult and Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance & Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 5+.

Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine in the centre.

DEFIBRILLATOR Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off.

JOBS, TRAINING BOARD We have a Jobs Board here at the Centre, feel free to call in and take a look, we also offer help and support with CV’s and cover letters if required.

For further information please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466

We welcome all GAA Club and Community notes for publication in The Kilkenny Observer email to sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurlng matters - Review

Sport

Cian Kenny takes possession challenged by Eoghan Cambell

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster GAA Hurling Senior Championship Round 1, UPMC Nowlan Park Kilkenny 5-30 Antrim 0-13 The Cats went goal crazy in their round 1 provincial clash with Antrim, hitting five majors in a game that was done and by halftime. While TJ ruled in the opening period, it would be subs including Owen Wall (2-2), Gearoid Dunne (1-1) and Billy Drennan (16) that really fired the home side to victory. Worryingly for Derek Lyng and his management team, both Adrian Mullen and Eoin Cody were forced off through injury, but he will hope to have both available for this weekend’s trip west.

TJ Reid, back in the starting line-up, having missed the Allianz league final, opened the scoring in the opening seconds with a free, after Galway whistler Shane Hynes penalised Antrim captain Eoghan Campbell for an illegal hand pass.

The legendary Shamrocks forward doubled the home sides lead a minute later, again from the placed ball, having taken a slap across the arm from a Saffrons defender.

The Ulstermen got the scoreboard moving shortly after via Conal Cunning who split the posts from a free following an infringement by David Blanchfield.

Mossy Keoghan and John Donnelly then combined to set up Adrian Mullen for a fine point after five minutes before Richie Reid picked up a loose ball in space and made no mistake in pointing from out the park. Tom Phelan, who was in for his first appearance of the season, then gave a lovely pass to John Donnelly who fired over a nice point to push the Kilkenny lead out to 4 points. Then a bit of a let off for the home side, when after a foul, the referee consulted with his umpires awarded Antrim just a free when it could have possibly been a penalty and black card. Conal Cunning slotted the placed ball for his side’s second score of the game after 9 minutes of play at UPMC Nowlan Park.

Darren Gleeson’s side then hit two further scores without reply, a lovely effort from Loughgiel’s James McNaughton built on by another free from Dunloy’s Cunning. Derek Lyng was then forced to make an early change, when Adrian Mullen left the field to be replaced by Gearoid Dunne, with a possibly knee injury. The Village’s Cian Kenny was then put in by Eoin Cody and the former registered his first point of the game. Mossy Keoghan rifled over a quality score having taken a nice pass from Richie Reid to leave the Noresiders lead at 3 points.

The next score was a big one and gave the hosts some breathing space. A long delivery into the

Cats maul poor Saffrons as subs shine in Leinster opener!

Galway next up for Lyng’s men Gearoid Dunne gets away from Phelim Duffin

danger zone was collected by TJ who struck his shot past Ryan Elliott in the Antrim goal, to make it a 6-point game. Kilkenny kept the pressure on from the restart, securing possession through Richie Reid who found his brother who did the rest for another lovely point.

Captain Paddy Deegan then picked out TJ who moved the sliotar onto Mossy Keoghan who struck over a sweet point.

Then came a big blow for Antrim.

Referee Hynes awarded a penalty to Kilkenny and also gave a black card to the visitor’s keeper Ryan Elliott.

It may have been a little harsh, considering the earlier incident.

Antrim sent on sub keeper Tiarnan Smyth for his championship debut – and his first action was to face a penalty from the record scorer in championship history – TJ Reid.

Credit to the Ballycastle man, he managed to save the penalty and give the Ulstermen something to cling to.

Indeed, they registered the next score of the game, a fine effort from Creggan’s Conor McCann to reduce the Kilkenny lead to seven points.

The Cats recorded the next three scores, another placed ball from TJ and two nice efforts from Gearoid Dunne and Cian Kenny. Dunloy’s Conal Cunning to his credit, was keeping the scoreboard ticking over fired over another free before Kilkenny’s captain Paddy Deegan struck over a trademark score to leave ten points between the sides.

Thomastown’s John Donnelly and Young Ireland’s Mikey Carey tagged on further points for Lyng’s men before Antrim’s main man,

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

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Hurling matters - Review

John Donnelly Scores for Kilkenny

Cunning notched the final score of the opening half to leave the scoreline at UPMC Nowlan Park reading Kilkenny 1-15, Antrim 0-7.

The Kilkenny management sent on Lisdowney’s Aidan Tallis in place of Eoin Murphy, who needed treatment late in the opening period, following a high challenge on the Glenmore man. The first notable action of the second half saw another Shamrocks Ballyhale man leave the field injured, this time it was Eoin Cody. Owen Wall was sent on to replace the 2-time former young hurler of the year, and what an impact the O’Loughlin’s man would go on to have.

The Marble City men hit the first

three scores after the interval, another free from TJ and two from play via John Donnelly and Shane Murphy. Like the opening period, it would be Dunloy’s Conal Cunning that opened the Saffrons account, again via the placed ball. The home team’s next score was crafted just a stone’s throw from Nowlan Park.

The returning Mikey Butler played a lovely pass to club mate Owen Wall who finished with aplomb. The men from the North got just their third score from play courtesy of the hard-working Nigel Elliott to reduce the Cats lead to 13 points.

Kilkenny then withdrew the first half’s chief protagonist, TJ Reid for a well-deserved rest, having finished his day with an impressive 1-5 and causing lots of problems to a beleaguered Antrim defence. Reid’s replacement, Billy Drennan got his first point of the game, not long after entering the field, having been well picked out by John Donnelly.

Midfielder Cian Kenny, who was enjoying his day at the office then fired over his 3rd of the game for his sides twenty-first point of the provincial opener before Antrim skipper Eoghan Campbell burst forward to notch a well-taken score for his sides 10th point of the game.

The crowd in attendance at UPMC Nowlan Park knew that Antrim were quite a bit off the pace and that the possibility of a comeback was highly unlikely, and unfortunately for them, the next score would sap any remaining positive energy out of the Ulstermen. Owen Wall showed blistering space to race clear before striking an unstoppable shot past Tiarnan Smyth in the Antrim goal on 49 minutes. Tullaroan’s Martin Keoghan then pounced for another lovely point as Graigue Ballycallan’s Billy Ryan came on for Conahy Shamrocks Tom Phelan.

Captain Paddy Deegan then found himself with acres of space and took the opportunity to fire over his second score of the game which Antrim replied to with yet another free from the reliable Conal Cunning. The next three scores came from the Cats, two placed efforts from Galmoy’s Billy Drennan and a sweet point from play by the irrepressible Owen Wall. Another change for the home side saw Tommy Walsh replace Mikey Butler, who will be all the better for 60-odd minutes action and be more ‘match ready’ for the trip to Galway next week.

Goal number three for the Cats came on 65 minutes. Billy Drennan forced the turnover to allow Owen Wall and Mossy Keoghan the chance to set up a well taken major for Gearoid Dunne, who has been in impressive form for the U20’s this season. Drennan tagged on another score before James McNaughton registered his 2nd point of a disappointing afternoon on Noreside, that was far from over for Darren Gleeson’s charges. O’Loughlin’s Owen Wall showed his predatory instincts to rifle home his second and his sides 4th major as the game reached additional time, something the Ulster side could have done without.

Antrim’s final score of very challenging Bob O’Keefe opener came via a nice point from Naomh Eoin’s Conal Bohill, but the Cats were rampant and there was still time for another 1-2 to be added to the scoreline. Mossy Keoghan looked certain to raise a green

Owen Wall attempts to get the ball away from Nigel Elliot and Paddy Burke

flag, only to be halted illegally, penalty given, penalty converted

by Drennan. Influential midfielder Cian Kenny split the Antrim posts with his fourth effort from play and the scoring was completed with a placed ball from Billy Drennan.

Final score in UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny 5-30, Antrim 0-13.

Kilkenny scorers: Billy Drennan 1-6 (1-0 pen, 0-2f, 0-1 65), Owen Wall 2-2, TJ Reid 1-5 (0-3f ), Gearoid Dunne 1-1, Cian Kenny 0-4, John Donnelly 0-3, Martin Keoghan 0-3, Paddy Deegan 0-2, Adrian Mullen 0-1, Richie Reid 0-1, Mikey Carey 0-1, Shane Murphy 0-1, Antrim scorers: Conal Cunning 0-7 (0-7f ), James McNaughton 0-2, Conor McCann 0-1, Nigel Elliott 0-1, Eoghan Campbell 0-1, Conal Bohill 0-1 Kilkenny: Eoin Murphy; Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Shane

Murphy; David Blanchfield, Paddy Deegan, Mikey Carey; Cian Kenny, Richie Reid; Adrian Mullen, John Donnelly, Tom Phelan; Martin Keoghan, Eoin Cody, TJ Reid.

Subs: Gearoid Dunne for Mullen 15, Aidan Tallis for Murphy h/t-f/t blood, Owen Wall for Cody 39, Billy Drennan for TJ Reid 45, Billy Ryan for Phelan 54, Tommy Walsh for Butler 62.

Antrim: Ryan Elliott; Paddy Burke, Ryan McGarry, Phelim Duffin; Scott Walsh, Eoghan Campbell, Conal Bohill; James McNaughton, Niall O’Connor; Michael Bradley, Nigel Elliott, Niall McKenna; Conal Cunning, Conor McCann, Seaan Elliott.

Subs: Tiarnan Smyth for McKenna 21, McKenna for Ryan Elliott 33, Joseph McLaughlin for Bradley h/t, Rory McCloskey for Walsh 58, Conor Boyd for McKenna 60.

Referee: Shane Hynes (Galway).

>> SHERRY SAYS...

It was always going to be a gentle introduction to their provincial campaign, and so it proved for Derek Lyng and his Cats. To my surprise TJ started, as did Mikey’s Butler & Carey. All did well, TJ – what more can be said about this Great?

While the Cats were wasteful at times, they still racked up 5-30, which will help build confidence ahead of their trip to the west this weekend. While there were telling contributions from TJ, Cian Kenny and John Donnelly, it would be the impact from the bench that really caught the eye in UPMC Nowlan Park.

Owen Wall, Billy Drennan & Gearoid Dunne hit an impressive 4-9 between them, with the seriously pacey O’Loughlin’s man notching 2-2. These three young men definitely laid down a marker and did their causes no harm at all with eye-catching cameos against a poor Antrim side.

The Black and Amber head west to tackle Henry’s Galway, the other side to pick up maximum points during round one in Leinster. The Tribesmen heavily rotated their squad for the victory over Carlow and got minutes into many players that won’t start against the Cats.

Dublin’s last gasp draw with Wexford leaves things very interesting and the winners of the clash out west this weekend will fancy their chances of topping the table. I’d say Cillian Buckley has been getting some shooting practice in ahead of the game in Pearse Stadium just in case! Let’s hope the Cats continue to purr.

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Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Thomastown United A.F.C. intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for a disabled toilet block at United Park, Cloghabrody, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Thomastown United A.F.C.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Callan United AFC, wish to apply to the above authority for permission to retain existing storage container with all associated site works at the Fairgreen, Callan, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Callan United AFC

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought by Hermitage Farms Limited to construct grain store building, yard area, associated access road and new vehicular entrance to public road and all associated site developments works at Garryduff, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny.

Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

KATHLEEN SHORTT 10TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of my dear friend Kathleen, late of Ballybough Street who died on April 25th 2014.

RIP We never knew that evening What the angels had in store They took from earth to heaven The friend that we adored God called your name so softly That only you could hear And no one heard the footsteps Of angels drawing near It broke our hearts to lose you But you did not go alone For part of us went with you The night God called you home Sadly missed and remembered always by your friend Marian.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. I.L.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.K.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024

Classifieds Motors

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

087 2587745

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 26th April 2024